Indore Students Learn to Make Natural Holi Colors from Padma Shri Janak Palta McGilligan

On the second day of a weeklong training program, students in Indore received hands-on training in making natural Holi colors from renowned Padma Shri awardee, Janak Palta McGilligan. The workshop, organized at the Jimmy McGilligan Centre for Sustainable Development, was attended by Rotaract Club students from Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research and Social Work students from Devi Ahilya University.

During the session, Dr. Janak Palta McGilligan demonstrated the simple process of creating chemical-free dry and wet colors using flowers, fruits, and natural plants. She showed how to instantly make:

• Red-pink shades from beetroot

• Yellow-orange hues from palash (Butea monosperma)

• Magenta-purple tones from rose, poi, and bougainvillea

Dr. Palta explained that these natural colors not only enhance skin health and beauty but also wash off easily and are environmentally friendly. She emphasized that festivals like Holi and Rangpanchami promote joy, love, and community spirit, while natural colors can ensure safe celebrations without skin or eye irritation.

Acropolis faculty member Vineeta Shirdhonkar highlighted that the session was completely practical. Students engaged in making, mixing, straining, and asking questions throughout. She expressed gratitude, saying:

"We are very thankful to Janak Didi for this informative session. We learned practical ways to make colors from flowers and fruits and drew inspiration from her simple, sustainable lifestyle. This experience was truly inspiring and enlightening for our students."

Priyanshi Mandloi, a Master of Social Work student, added:

"Janak Didi's work is highly inspiring for social work students. It shows how small, thoughtful actions can make a big difference and motivates us to become more value-driven professionals."

The training provided students with practical techniques to create natural colors at home or college, a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainable Holi practices, and inspiration from Dr. Palta's love for nature. The session concluded with a discussion on sustainable living and climate awareness, during which students pledged to:

• Celebrate Holi using natural colors

• Promote eco-friendly Holi celebrations in their college and community

• Spread awareness about safe, chemical-free Holi practices

The initiative aimed to foster a clean, safe, and green environment for future generations while preserving the festive spirit of Holi.