Bhagoriya’s 3-D approach this Holi: No daru, dahej, DJ

Walpur (Alirajpur): The vibrant colours and energy of Bhagoriya remained intact in Walpur this year, but its rhythm carried a new message -- D3: no daru (alcohol), no dahej (dowry), no DJ. Held in the tribal belt of Alirajpur district, Bhagoriya is the annual pre-Holi fair where villages gather to trade, celebrate and strengthen community ties. This year, the festival became a platform for social reform. Backed by the district administration, community leaders and youth groups, the D3 campaign sought to steer the fair away from alcohol, dowry and high-decibel DJ music, and back to its traditional essence. Posters dotted the haat grounds, volunteers spread awareness, and a D3 selfie corner drew enthusiastic participation from youngsters. The shift was clearly visible -- mandal and dhol replaced DJ consoles, and folk songs echoed across the grounds. Elders said the fair felt closer to the Bhagoriya of earlier days. Ankit Singh, a student at the School of Tribal Studies at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, called the anti-dowry message crucial, noting that rising wedding costs burden many families. Village sarpanch Kumbal Sastiya said banning DJs was aimed at preserving fading traditions. "We want the sound of mandal and dhol to remain part of our identity. No DJs were allowed at the mela, and people were urged not to use DJs at weddings either, so that our fading traditions are preserved," he said. Officials maintained that while the administration supported the effort, the drive was community-led. For Walpur, this year's Bhagoriya was not just a celebration, but a statement of change.