Siliguri, 09th March: Ahead of Holi, Perfumed Herbal Gulal is prepared every year by mixing talcum powder, food color, and marigold flowers to prevent skin disease and allergy.
Before Holi, people seem to be worried about adulteration and chemicals. Doctors also advise staying away from such colors. Due to this, the demand for herbal abir has increased in the last few years. Herbal Abir is made before Holi under the initiative of the Forest Department of Bengal Government. This year also Herbal Abir is being made by the Forest Department at Bangdubi near Siliguri. Around seven and a half quintals of herbal abir are being prepared. Apart from Siliguri, this herbal abir will be sent to various surrounding districts.