Celebrate Holi with dignity, harmony, avoid vulgar songs: CM Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday appealed to people to celebrate Holi with dignity, avoid vulgar songs and refrain from using chemicals or force while applying colours, saying festivals bring joy only when observed in peace and harmony.

Addressing a gathering at the ‘Bhakt Prahlad Shobhayatra’ organised by Shri Shri Holika Dahan Utsav Samiti at Pandehata in Gorakhpur, he said Holika Dahan should be performed in a manner that does not cause inconvenience or damage to anyone’s property. “Holi songs should be sung in the true spirit of the festival. There should be no obscenity. Whenever vulgarity creeps into songs, it diminishes the significance of our festivals,” he said, adding that every daughter, sister and trader should feel safe during the celebrations.

The chief minister said only colours and gulal should be used during Rangwali Holi, and mud and chemicals must be avoided.

“Do not apply colour on someone’s face forcibly. There may be elderly people, children, the sick or families going through grief who may not wish to participate. No one should be compelled,” he said.

Adityanath also urged people to ensure that Holika Dahan is organised at a safe distance from homes.