Holi and Dhulivandan bring colour to every lane of Mumbai. To keep the celebration safe and peaceful, the Mumbai Police issue a prohibitory order every year covering the days around Holi and Rang Panchami. Most problems arise from a few behaviours, set out below. Holi in 2027 is expected in March.
What the yearly police order usually prohibits
| Prohibited | Why |
|---|---|
| Throwing or spraying coloured water, dyes or powder on pedestrians | Injuries, harassment and road accidents |
| Preparing or throwing water balloons, coloured or plain | Serious eye and head injuries, and accidents for two-wheeler riders and train passengers |
| Obscene songs, gestures or offensive slogans in public | Public order and the dignity of women |
The order is issued under the Maharashtra Police Act, and violations can be prosecuted under that Act (in 2025, the order was in force from 12 to 18 March). Check the current year’s order.
Consent matters
- Forcing colour on someone who does not want it can amount to assault or criminal force under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- Touching or harassing women under the cover of Holi can attract offences relating to outraging modesty and sexual harassment (Sections 74 and 75 BNS), whatever the occasion.
- Throwing balloons at moving trains or vehicles can cause grievous injury and lead to serious charges.
Colours, water and the environment
- Chemical and industrial colours can cause skin and eye injuries; use natural, skin-safe colours.
- BMC and the police have, in past years, warned against cutting trees for Holika Dahan and against water wastage. Holika Dahan bonfires in public places need care for fire safety and may need police permission.
Drink-driving and bhang
Traffic police run intensive drink-driving checks on Holi. Driving under the influence is an offence under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Do not drive after consuming alcohol or bhang.
Housing societies
Societies can regulate Holi in common areas through committee decisions: designated play areas, timings, and a ban on water balloons from balconies. Damage to cars and property can be recovered from those responsible.
If you are targeted
- Move to safety and get medical help for eye or head injuries.
- Call 112 or 100, or approach the nearest police station.
- Note the location and time, and record any video or witnesses.
- Harassment of women should be reported immediately; police must register an FIR for a cognizable offence. See if the police refuse an FIR.
Frequently asked questions
Are water balloons banned in Mumbai on Holi?
Yes. The police’s yearly order prohibits preparing and throwing water balloons, coloured or plain, at people in public places.
Can I be booked for throwing colour on a stranger?
Yes. Throwing colour on unwilling passers-by breaches the police order and can amount to assault.
See also: Diwali firecracker rules and Dahi Handi rules.
Planning ahead? See the festival permissions calendar 2026–27 for dates and when to start preparing, or all festival guides.
Consultations are by appointment. To fix a time, telephone +91 99301 50560 or send a message on WhatsApp.
This guide describes the law as understood in October 2026. The police order is issued afresh each year; check its dates and terms. It is not legal advice.
More festival guides
- Festivals in Housing Societies
- Wedding Baraat, Band and DJ in Mumbai
- Chhath Puja in Mumbai
- Religious Procession Permission in Mumbai
- Loudspeakers at Places of Worship in Maharashtra
- Makar Sankranti Kite Flying
- Dahi Handi Rules in Maharashtra
- Navratri Garba and Dandiya Events in Mumbai
- Ganeshotsav Pandal Permission in Mumbai
- New Year and Christmas Parties in Mumbai
- Diwali Firecrackers in Mumbai
- Bakri Eid Qurbani in Mumbai