Holi On A Budget: 5 Ways To Celebrate Without Breaking The Bank

Holi is one of the most awaited festivals in India, as it not only brings joy to our lives but also fills colours into our day-to-day mundane routines. Planning for Holi may sound very exciting but it may also cost your wallet if you do not plan it well. From hosting parties to getting sweets and gifts for your friends and family, the expenses are likely to accumulate soon.

However, the festival can be an occasion to host a low-key event with your loved ones where the activities have a more personal touch than extravagance and mere show-off. From hosting a potluck to finding use for old clothes, here are five cost-effective ways to celebrate Holi without depleting your bank account.

1. Host a Potluck 

Food is typically the most expensive part of Holi, particularly if you are expecting guests over. Rather than doing everything yourself, host a potluck where family members or guests bring an offering of some sort to share.

This approach saves you money and offers a very diverse range of snacks and sweets. Potlucks also allow social bonding and relieve pressure on an individual. If you’re part of a housing society, consider suggesting a community-wide potluck — a practical way to manage costs for larger groups.

2. Pre-Order Sweets To Avoid Festive Price Rises

Traditional sweets such as gujiya, malpua, and barfi tend to undergo a price rise nearer to Holi. To miss paying the higher rates, order early. Most sweet shops give concessions on bulk pre-bookings, particularly for housing societies or group functions.

If you like cooking, preparing sweets at home is also cost-effective. Preparing favourite sweets in large quantities using general ingredients by neighbours or friends can save money further.

3. Sacrifice Old Clothes

Holi celebrations are sure to soil clothes with colours that are difficult to remove. Rather than purchasing new clothes, utilise old clothes that you are willing to spoil.

That simple white kurta you have in your closet or that old t-shirt can work wonders for Holi festivities. Not only does this save you money, but it also utilises the best out of something that would otherwise go to waste.

4. Host A House Party

Festivities of Holi in resorts and clubs generally have very high entry charges, costly food, and extra drinks or activities. Hosting it at home or in your residential society is relatively low-cost.

Turn your terrace, backyard, or society area into a party venue with minimal embellishments such as multi-coloured dupattas, paper streamers, and fairy lights. Choose a playlist among friends rather than booking DJs or entertainers to maintain the beat without additional expense.

When calling over friends or neighbours, try money pooling to share the expense of snacks, beverages, and decorations.

5. Save Water Wisely

Wastage of water during Holi is inevitable, but overuse can surprisingly drive up your bill. Try to include dry Holi parties in community halls or limit water play to a specific zone to avoid waste. Getting your friends to play with minimal water — or using environmentally friendly colours, and water balloons that do not need so much filling — will keep your expenses as well as your carbon footprint in line.

With planning, shared costs, and careful spending, you can have a hair-raising Holi without draining your wallet. A planned celebration enables you to immerse yourself in the spirit of the festival without the fear of excess.

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