I stopped playing Holi when I was in school because it started becoming an excuse for lewd behaviour. Playing with colour is fun but, beyond that, I don't enjoy it. In Mumbai especially, I feel the streets aren't safe for women during the festival. It is impossible for women to step out of their homes. I don't even step out the day before. I think it should be played with people you know. You have no right to get boisterous with strangers. Invasion of privacy is hardly a way to celebrate.

But in non-metropolitan places like Madhya Pradesh, the essence of the festival is still alive.