Jaipur School's Holi Color Ban Sparks Controversy

The Rajasthan Education Minister criticized a Jaipur school's ban on Holi colors, alleging it hurts cultural sentiments. The school cited safety concerns, stating the aim was to prevent synthetic color use during exams. They plan a Holi event using natural colors, addressing the controversy’s backlash.

A recent controversy has stirred in Jaipur as Rajasthan's Education Minister Madan Dilawar took a firm stance against St Angela Sophia School. The school had advised students against bringing Holi colors, a move interpreted by the minister as an affront to cultural sentiments surrounding the festival.

While the school positioned the restriction as a safety measure to prevent the use of harmful synthetic colors during the examination period, Dilawar publicly criticized the school's policy via a video message, questioning the appropriateness of their actions and urging the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to consider reevaluating the school's recognition.

In response, the school clarified its position, emphasizing that celebrations were not being discouraged. To quell the backlash, a Holi celebration utilizing natural colors and flowers is set for Wednesday at the school, highlighting efforts to maintain cultural integrity while ensuring student safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)