Holi Colours Reflect Political Landscape in Kolkata

In Kolkata, the festival of Holi is not just about joyous celebrations and social harmony; it also serves as a reflection of the city’s political landscape. The dominant colour of Holi each year subtly indicates which political party holds sway over the state.

While Holi is traditionally a religious and cultural festival celebrated across India, Kolkata presents a unique picture where politics plays a significant role in determining the hues of the festivities. Political leaders actively use the occasion to engage with the public, visiting voters along with party workers to garner support. However, long before politicians make their moves, the people of the city express their own political sentiments through the colours they choose to celebrate with.

What happened during Left Front rule

During the decades-long rule of the Left Front, Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal were awash with red and pink abir (coloured powder). However, as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) began gaining ground in the mid-2000s and eventually took power in 2011, the dominant Holi colours shifted from red to green, reflecting the party’s emblematic hue.

Over time, the once-powerful Left has seen its influence wane significantly, with no electoral victories in the Lok Sabha or Assembly elections in recent years. This political shift is evident even in Kolkata’s paint markets, where demand for red and pink abir has dwindled. In contrast, saffron abir, once rarely used, has been growing in popularity in the past few years as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strengthened its presence in the state. In some areas, saffron has even replaced green, indicating BJP’s rising influence.

Suman Chowdhury, a paint dealer in Kolkata’s Barabazar, observed, “The colours of Holi in Kolkata have long been intertwined with politics. Traders adjust their stock based on public demand. Sometimes it is red, sometimes green, and sometimes saffron—changing with the political climate.”

Suraj Prasad, a wholesaler in Janbazar, echoed a similar sentiment, stating, “The preference for Holi colours varies by locality. Since Kolkata supplies abir to different parts of the state, the colour in demand reflects the dominant political party in a given area. In many ways, Holi serves as a political barometer for the entire state.”

Kolkatans going with the flow

Residents of Kolkata also recognise this trend. Swapan Roy, a local customer, remarked, “This political influence is not limited to Holi alone. Colours are used during pujas and other celebrations throughout the year, and their selection is often politically motivated.”

Khokon Das, another resident, added, “Political leaders keep a keen eye on which colours dominate in different areas. At times, specific shades of abir are deliberately chosen to send messages to party leaders.”

As Kolkata prepares to celebrate Holi once again, the city’s markets and streets will reveal more than just festive spirit—they will provide a glimpse into the evolving political dynamics of West Bengal.