Ranchi: Holi celebrations in the city have undergone a significant transformation, evolving from intimate family gatherings to large-scale, organized events catering to the city’s youth and urban population. This shift was exemplified by Rang Utsav 2025, held on Sunday at Harmu Ground, which drew thousands of revellers seeking a curated festive experience.
The event showcased various attractions, including musical performances, rain dance setups, ‘phoolon ki Holi,’ and organic colours, ensuring a safe environment for participants. With tickets starting at Rs 199, the celebration was accessible to a broad section of people.
Priya Sharma, a 24-year-old software engineer, said: “This is my first time at such an event. The energy here is electrifying, and thoughtful inclusion of organic colours and traditional music perfectly blend the old with the new.”
While modern celebrations gain popularity, traditional festivities maintain their significance. Union MoS for defence Sanjay Seth hosted a ‘Holi Milan Samaroh’ at his residence, titled ‘HasyaMev Jayate.’ The event featured cultural programmes, bhajans, Holi songs, and poetry recitations, with guests enjoying millet-based delicacies.
Minister Seth said, “Holi is a festival that brings joy and unity. While modern celebrations have their charm, it’s essential to preserve our rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.”
The rise of ticketed events like Rang Utsav reflects the growing commercialization of Holi celebrations, driven by urbanization, changing lifestyles, and the desire for novel experiences. Local event organizer Rahul Verma explained, “Today’s youths seek immersive experiences. Organized events provide safety, entertainment, and a platform to celebrate with a larger community. We aim to offer a holistic festive environment by incorporating both modern and traditional elements.”
The success of events like Rang Utsav, alongside traditional celebrations, indicates a growing market for organized festivities that offer controlled environments, live entertainment, and thematic experiences. This transformation of Holi celebrations in Ranchi represents a broader cultural shift, where traditional festivals are being reimagined to meet contemporary expectations while maintaining their cultural significance.