RWAs gear up for Dol–Holi, blending DJ bash with Santiniketan tradition
Times of India | 3 March 2026
Kolkata: From high-decibel DJ after-noons and rain dances to serene prabhat pheris and Santiniketan-style Basanta Utsav, housing complexes across the city are set to usher in Dol and Holi with a mix of spectacle and tradition. Lawns, podiums and central parks within gated communities are being transformed into colour-soaked arenas as resident welfare associations (RWAs) roll out multi-day celebrations blending music, ritual and food.
At Silver Spring Apartments, off EM Bypass, the festival will unfold as a Vrindavan–Mathura-inspired revelry in the common area. The line-up includes a rain dance and a DJ-led musical afternoon, alongside an elaborate food spread. "There will be a rain dance, DJ music and a celebration where all residents come together to enjoy the festival. We are planning a vast spread of delicious food and are committed to making this an eco-friendly Holi with organic colours," said Ashok Baid, a senior RWA member at the complex. Organisers said herbal gulal will be distributed to encourage a safer celebration.
A more expansive, three-day programme began at South City, where festivities kicked off with Holika Dahan around midnight on Monday. "After Holika Dahan, we will have a prabhat pheri on Tuesday morning, followed by an in-house cultural programme and musical afternoon at the central lawn," said Manoj Gupta, a senior resident. "On Wednesday, there will be Phoolon ki Holi and a DJ and musical programme in the afternoon. There will be plenty of snack stalls on both days, along with complimentary abir and thandai."
In Rajarhat, Siddha Pines will host a three-day Basanta Utsav and Holi celebration beginning with Thandi Holi and Nyara Pora rituals on Monday night. "On Tuesday, we will celebrate Dol Jatra at the Woods Garden, and on Wednesday there will be a grand colour fest near the pool area. There will be DJ music, lights, snacks and refreshing thandai on all days," said Manav Mehra, president of the RWA. The organisers designated separate zones for rituals and colour play to ensure the smooth conduct of events.
At Golf Green, residents are preparing for a Santiniketan-style Dol Utsab steeped in song and procession. The programme, now in its 26th year, will begin at 7.30 am and continue till 10 am, with participation from around 400 residents. "Three groups of singers and dancers will begin a prabhat pheri from three ends of Golf Green and converge at the central park for the main programme," said Saibal Raha, secretary of the central coordination committee.
RWAs also circulated advisories on use of organic colours and responsible celebration. Many arranged complimentary abir counters and thandai kiosks, while food stalls—ranging from chaat tofestive fare—are expected to draw crowds through the afternoon.