Key Points:
- Holi celebrated enthusiastically nationwide on Friday, March 14, 2025
- Festivities coincided with Ramzan’s second Friday prayers, leading to heightened security
- Over 25,000 security personnel deployed in Delhi; surveillance through drones and CCTV
- Metro and public transport services briefly suspended, resumed by afternoon
- Peaceful celebrations reported despite communal sensitivity in several regions
New Delhi: India celebrated the vibrant festival of Holi with great enthusiasm and joy on Friday, March 14, 2025. Across the country, people greeted each other warmly by applying gulal (colored powder) and joyfully participated in festivities filled with music, dance, and vibrant colors.
This year’s Holi coincided with the second Friday prayers of Ramzan—a rare occurrence that prompted authorities to significantly enhance security arrangements nationwide. To prevent any untoward incidents or communal disturbances, police forces intensified patrolling and surveillance operations in major cities.
In Delhi alone, over 25,000 security personnel were deployed to maintain law and order. Authorities closely monitored around 300 sensitive locations using CCTV cameras and drone surveillance. Metro rail and other public transport services were temporarily suspended during morning hours as a precautionary measure but resumed normal operations by afternoon.
In Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district, Holi was celebrated peacefully despite recent communal tensions stemming from riots following the survey of Shahi Jama Masjid on November 24 last year. A traditional “Chaupai ka Jhoolus” procession was organized in Sambhal city amidst tight security. Friday prayers at Shahi Jama Masjid were conducted smoothly at 2:30 pm after mosque head Zafar Ali appealed to both communities to celebrate Holi and offer namaz harmoniously.
Security measures extended beyond Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Mumbai deployed approximately 11,000 police personnel across the city to prevent harassment incidents, drunken brawls, or public disorder. Maharashtra authorities also set up special checkpoints and launched drives against drunk driving and traffic violations.
In Madhya Pradesh’s capital Bhopal, police proactively took preventive actions against over 1,000 individuals identified as potential troublemakers. Flag marches were conducted regularly to demonstrate preparedness, while social media platforms were monitored closely for inflammatory content.
Authorities in Noida conducted flag marches ahead of celebrations to showcase readiness for any situation. Deputy Commissioner Ram Badan Singh emphasized that special attention was given due to the simultaneous observance of Holi and Jumma Namaz.
Overall, despite heightened communal sensitivity due to coinciding festivals, India successfully celebrated Holi in a peaceful atmosphere marked by unity and harmony.
