Holi 2025: Why do we wear white on Holi?

Holi 2025: Why  do people wear  white on Holi? 

By Saumya Rastogi | March 13, 2025 | Images: Freepik

A blank canvas for colours

White acts as a blank canvas, allowing the bright colours of Holi to stand out beautifully. Just as an artist starts with a white sheet, a white outfit highlights the transformation as colors are thrown, making the experience visually striking and immersive

Symbol of purity and new beginnings

In Indian culture, white represents purity and peace. Holi marks the arrival of spring and renewal, symbolising a fresh start in life, relationships, and emotions

A nod to tradition

Historically, people wore simple, lightweight cotton garments during Holi, often in white or neutral shades. This practice dates back to times when minimalist dressing was common, and it has carried forward as a cherished traditional custom

Linked to spirituality

In Hindu culture, white is often linked to detachment, spirituality, and inner peace. Wearing white before Holi can symbolise letting go of ego, negativity, and societal differences

Highlights the transformation of colours

One of the most exciting aspects of Holi is seeing how a plain white outfit turns into a multicolored masterpiece by the end of the day. This transformation symbolises embracing happiness, change, and positivity

Practical and comfortable choice

Holi is celebrated outdoors in the warm spring weather, making light and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen ideal. White-coloured clothes also reflect sunlight, keeping the body cool and comfortable during the festivities

Bollywood and pop culture influence

Indian cinema has played a significant role in popularising white clothing for Holi. Iconic Bollywood movies showcase actors dressed in white kurtas and sarees, dancing in a riot of colours, reinforcing the association between white and Holi celebrations

Unity and equality

Wearing white before Holi represents a level playing field—regardless of background, social status, or differences, everyone starts the day in the same colour and gets covered in colours together

Easy to discard or reuse

White garments show off the colours best and can either be washed and saved as a memory or discarded after the festival

Next: Mahira Khan’s 10 best salwar kameez looks for Eid 2025
Thanks For Reading !
Find out More