Rourkela: Students of National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela on Wednesday ditched conventional chemical-based gulal (coloured powders) and water balloons and instead gave a refreshing and eco-conscious twist to the festival of Holi.
While the initial celebration began with herbal or natural colours, the focus quickly shifted to a massive artificial mud pool set up on the campus, creating a chaotic yet joyful scene where everyone ended up coated in the same uniform layer of earth. The campus buzzed with energy as music blared from DJ setups, students danced enthusiastically, and the air filled with laughter and cheers.
This tradition, where vibrant rituals meet therapeutic mud for a truly rejuvenating experience, has become an annual favourite at the institute with some students pointing to past irritation on skin due to chemicals, especially in synthetic colours. The hot jalebis and traditional Odia pana added a delicious local flavour to the festivities, making it a memorable cultural fusion for them.
