India: Holi festival celebrations to take place March 18

Event

India will celebrate the annual Hindu festival of Holi, a nationwide public holiday, March 18. Mass gatherings will occur at religious sites and public squares; traditional bonfires and color-throwing events usually take place during the festival. The largest festivities typically occur in northern India, especially Uttar Pradesh State.

Security
Authorities will maintain heightened security measures due to threats by domestic and international Islamist groups, especially Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). Security personnel are typically deployed to monitor possible target sites, including religious buildings, procession routes, transport hubs, and crowded public places. Border security units at air force bases, the Coast Guard, and the Navy, may increase patrols to prevent infiltration from the Pakistani borders. Security arrangements are unlikely to affect multinational business interests unless militants stage any significant attacks.

Officials are also monitoring possible Hindu-Muslim communal clashes during the festival, especially in states like Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. Interreligious tension is high due to the Karnataka State government's policy on hijab; protests against the measure have occurred in Karnataka and other states nationwide. Authorities could temporarily impose localized curfews if significant violence breaks out.

Increased opportunistic crime, like theft, could occur at gatherings that attract a sizeable number of tourists, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. Stampedes due to overcrowding are possible.

Transport and Commercial
Travel delays are probable during the holiday, especially in urban centers. Authorities may enforce road closures, traffic diversions, and heavy vehicle restrictions around prominent event venues. Increased road congestion is probable and may lead to ground shipping disruptions. Officials typically introduce additional train and bus services to alleviate congestion caused by the large numbers of people traveling to their hometowns for the holidays. Rerouting or curtailment of public services such as buses and Metro trains in north Indian cities such as Delhi are likely.

Most businesses will close on the public holiday March 18; states may declare additional public holidays. Some establishments may alter business hours through March 19.

Health
The authorized sale and personal use of bhang - a form of cannabis traditionally consumed during Holi - is not deemed illegal in India; however, its cultivation is strictly controlled. Consuming bhang from untrusted or unauthorized sources poses a health risk.

Authorities continue to enact tightened measures such as travel restrictions and health screenings due to COVID-19. Increased health checks may occur at crowded locations and event sites.

Context

Holi, a prominent annual Hindu festival, marks the end of winter and is associated with multiple spiritual meanings such as the triumph of love, devotion, and goodness within oneself. The most popular celebration is in honor of Lord Krishna and his consort, Radha, in his birthplace in Mathura District, India. The holiday date varies according to the Hindu calendar. Other religious communities such as Jains, some sects of Buddhists, and Sikhs also observe Holi.

Advice

Exercise caution around religious venues and other sites commonly identified as potential militant targets. Confirm business appointments, deliveries, road status, and transport reservations March 18. Confirm flights; do not check out of hotels before verifying onward travel. Allow additional travel time and plan for alternative travel and shipment routes. Drive cautiously in areas with planned celebrations, mainly around public squares and temples. Carry identification documents to present at security checks; heed all official instructions.

Individuals with pre-existing skin and respiratory allergies should carry adequate medication and consult with a physician before partaking in celebrations. Stay indoors in well-ventilated areas whenever possible and seek medical attention if allergy symptoms occur. Avoid public gatherings if under health monitoring by authorities, or if unwell. Exercise basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.