The doctors said that over the years, natural colours have been replaced by synthetic colours. It may be noted that chemical colours came into vogue as they were earlier thought to be harmless. Besides their being convenient and cost effective options as against the natural colours.

According to Dr Akashdeep Singh, pulmonologist at CMCH, “These days most Holi colours sold in the market are oxidized metals or industrial dyes mixed with engine oil. These chemicals are known to cause serious harm to health, especially the skin health. The black colour, for instance, comes from lead oxide, green from copper sulphate, silver from aluminium bromide and red from mercury sulphite. These chemicals can cause allergy, temporary blindness, renal failure, skin cancer and even paralysis. It can even prove fatal. The dangerous side effects of Holi colours can ruin the spirit of the festival.”

“People with a high risk of stroke should be cautious about their diet during this festival season. The stress, anxiety and emotions clubbed with excessive alcohol consumption involved during the celebration of Holi can trigger a ‘Stroke or Brain Attack’ in susceptible individuals”, informed Dr Jeyaraj D Pandian, Deparment of Neurology.

The Package Products Act’ (PPA) rule demands that the content, price and the name and address of the manufacturer be mentioned on the cover of the packet — a rule which rarely colour manufacturers or salesmen are even aware of. As regards lack of information on the packets, Dr Wesley, Lecturer, Deparment of Medicine, said: “Each year physicians have a rush of patients who come with adverse reactions to some substance. Also, the lack of a regulatory body adds to the problems faced by customers. We advise the use of herbal colours that seem to be safer than the chemical colours.’’

Interim Medical Superintendent Dr V.P Singh cautioned, “Even the way we play Holi is becoming dangerous. Throwing water filled balloons has become rampant, which is very harmful. People should realise, what is fun for them could cause injury to the eyes and ears to the other person, especially when thrown from a distance and with force.