Sophia School, Ajmer (Rajasthan) withdraws ban on students for celebrating Holi in School

Opposition by Education Minister
Celebration of eco-friendly Holi

Ajmer (Rajasthan) – The local Sophia Senior Secondary School issued instructions banning students from celebrating Holi and playing with colours. It was stated by the school that such a step was being taken for a secure atmosphere for all students. Any student coming to school without completely removing the colour would not be allowed to appear for the examination.

The State education minister Madan Dilawar of BJP Government, however, stated that Holi has been a cultural identity of this country and imposing a ban on its celebration would be wrong. He also warned to lodge a complaint against the school with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE – Central secondary education board) after which the school withdrew its decision.

📍 Jaipur (Rajasthan): Sophia School withdraws its ban on Holi celebrations after strong opposition! 🎨🔥

🔹 The Education Minister Madan Dilawar had opposed the ban.

🔹 Now, students will celebrate an eco-friendly Holi! 🌿

❓ Had the Minister not intervened, would this… pic.twitter.com/m6SeaHLTEZ

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) March 11, 2025

BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya had said that it was not proper to impose a ban on Sanatan festivals. The school management had no authority in this context. It is children’s right to play Holi and they should celebrate the Holi festival.

Clarification by the school after Hindus’ protest

Sophia School’s headmistress Ms Cynthia explained after Hindus protest that Holi would be celebrated with school staff and students. Chemical colours are sometimes used; but the school would arrange Holi with flowers. Eco-friendly colours would be used. (Why didn’t the school think of it in the first place ? – Editor)

Editorial Perspective

Please note that had the education minister not raised objection, the school would have continued the ban on celebrating Holi; therefore, stringent action should be taken against such schools and necessary rules should be made to avoid such things in future.