Lucknow: As Holi approaches, with HolikaDahan lighting up the evening of March 3, Lucknow’s historic markets are awash in colour and celebration. The narrow, winding lanes of Chowk, the ever-bustling Aminabad, and the glittering stretches near Sarafa Bazaar are humming with festive anticipation. The air carries a heady mix of fresh gulal, roasted dry fruits, thandai spices, and the sweet aroma of gujiyas frying in large iron kadhais.
Families, students, and visitors weave through vibrant stalls stacked with colours, pichkaris, water balloons, and festive attire. True to Lucknow’s famed Ganga-Jamunitehzeeb, the markets blend age-old traditions with modern eco-conscious choices, creating a Holi shopping experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Herbal Colours Take Centre Stage
Holi colours remain the heart of the festival, but this year the demand for natural and herbal gulal has clearly outpaced synthetic options. Vendors in Chowk and Aminabad proudly display brands such as Phool Natural Gulal, crafted from recycled temple flowers; Tota Brand Holi Colour, offering turmeric yellow, beetroot pink, and marigold orange shades; and Camel Colours organic fusion packs. Local favourites like AMA Herbal and The Herbal Earth also line the shelves with non-toxic, biodegradable powders.
“This year, nearly 80 percent of customers are asking only for herbal gulal—no chemicals,” says a Chowk vendor, weighing out bright pink powder. “Phool and Tota are flying off the shelves. People want safe fun for their children and families.”
Shoppers agree. “Why risk skin irritation?” smiles Ritu Srivastava, shopping with her two young sons. “These natural colours are vibrant, safe, and wash off easily.”
Pichkaris, Silver Splashes, and Nawabi Flair
Pichkaris remain a festive favourite. From classic plastic models to long-range “Dhurandhar” water guns and colourful backpack-style sprayers, there is something for every age. In Sarafa Bazaar, ornate silver pichkaris—priced up to ₹1 lakh—draw curious onlookers, reflecting Lucknow’s Nawabi grandeur.
“Dhurandharpichkaris are the rage this year—kids love the power splash!” laughs Arjun Khan, a college student in Aminabad.
Eco-friendly water balloons, protective coconut oil bottles for easy colour removal, and stacks of old white cotton kurtas complete the must-buy list.
Beyond Colours: A Feast for the Senses
Holi shopping in Lucknow is incomplete without festive treats. Markets overflow with thandai mixes, gujiya molds, namkeen, dry fruit hampers, and sweets packed in decorative boxes. Meanwhile, emerging events like the Lucknow Farmers Market Holi Bazaar in Hazratganj, scheduled for March 1, promise organic gulal, homemade delicacies, live music, and even phoolon ki Holi.
“Skip the rush—come for organic gulaal, local treats, and community celebrations,” encourages Ajay, one market organizer.
Tehzeeb in Every Hue
Lucknow’s Holi remains uniquely graceful—less boisterous than some northern hotspots, yet equally spirited. “Holi here isn’t just about colours,” reflects a veteran Aminabad shopper. “It’s about tehzeeb. We apply gulal with affection, share thandai across communities, and wash away differences.”
Traders report brisk sales, especially in herbal products. “Holi trade is booming,” says a stall owner in Chowk. “People want natural, vibrant, and safe—and Lucknow keeps the Nawabi spirit alive.”
As spring settles over the city, the markets shimmer with promise. Stock up on herbal gulal, pick your favouritepichkari, and step into a Holi filled with joy, unity, and timeless charm. Let the colours fly!
