Holi 2025: Humane World For Animals India Urges Compassionate Holi, Warns Against Toxic Colours Harmful To Street Animals

Mumbai: Ahead of Holi, animal protection organisation, Humane World for Animals India (formerly Humane Society International/India) has urged the citizens to celebrate a compassionate Holi. The organisation highlighted the dangers posed by toxic colours used during traditional Holi celebrations, which can cause severe health risks to humans and animals.

Keren Nazareth, director of the companion animals and engagement team at Humane World for Animals India, said, “Every year, there are frequent instances of individuals forcibly applying Holi colours and coloured water to street animals, which can cause significant stress, skin irritation and poisoning even. This Holi, let’s celebrate with kindness and respect for all living beings, ensuring that animals are not subjected to unnecessary harm.”

“Animals, especially street and community animals, can suffer due to toxic colours, loud noises, water balloons and the chaos of the festival. By opting for eco-friendly colours, avoiding harm to animals and celebrating responsibly, we can ensure that Holi remains a joyful occasion for all – human and animal alike. It’s our responsibility to make sure that our happiness doesn’t cause distress to those who share our streets and neighbourhoods,” she added.

Dr. Piyush Patel, veterinarian and director of the companion animals and engagement team at Humane World for Animals India shared tips to celebrate animal-friendly Holi. It advised to prevent applying toxic colours on animals as synthetic dyes can be toxic, leading to skin allergies, blindness and poisoning. Dogs, cats and other animals often lick their bodies to clean themselves, unknowingly ingesting Holi colours, which frequently becomes a primary cause of poisoning. Inhaling the powder may cause nasal irritation, and even respiratory infection.

He also advised against feeding sweets to street animals as they can cause digestive issues and health problems. He also added that while kids often get excited by the colours and water splashing, it needs to be ensured that their enthusiasm doesn’t unintentionally cause harm to animals. If an animal is accidentally coloured, gently wash them with mild pet shampoo without using kerosene or spirits and immediately consult a veterinarian if colour enters their eyes, nose or mouth, he added.

Apart from keeping emergency contacts of local animal rescue groups or veterinarians, he also advised that people should raise awareness within their community to celebrate responsibly.

“Request your community secretary and building managers to display informative posters that highlight the dangers of Holi colours to animals. Suggest organising celebrations in designated areas, away from animal habitats, to minimise disruption to street animals. Advise residents to keep pets and community dogs indoors and ensure that water or colours are not thrown at street animals,” he added.