Jeetandar Sharma and Kumar Sharma are brothers and neighbours too. A dispute about dividing a family-owned property back in their home town in Kanpur started between the two and it has been several months since the two families spoke to each other. However, all was forgotten today as the two families celebrated the festival of colours with the many North Indian families in their apartment complex at Sai Baba Clooney.

R.S. Puram, home to several North Indian families, sported a colourful look today. Families and friends came together and threw colours at each other. “This year my son, who is in Class V, is enjoying his summer holidays. So, for him and his friends, it is double celebrations,” Neera, A., a resident of R.S. Puram, said.

For Anamika Gupta this is her first holi post her marriage to Mumbai-based businessman. “We live in a joint family in Coimbatore and every occasion becomes a celebration for us. This being my first Holi after my marriage, it is very special. The celebrations will continue in Mumbai at my in-laws place once we return home,” an excited Animaka said.

This year, considering the blazing heat, several kids proffered to play Holi with water. For them it was one sure way of escaping the heat and having fun too. Deeraj K, who is originally from the North and who has made Coimbatore home, recalls the days when celebrations were minimal yet fun. “After a heavy festive breakfast, we would hire an open lorry and about 30 of us would visit a friend’s farmhouse on the outskirts of Coimbatore and the celebrations would last the entire day. A little ahead of sunset all of us, soaked in colours and beyond recognition, would rush home and struggle to wash off the colours,” says a nostalgic Pankaj. This year, on the advice of his doctor, he stayed away from playing with colours.

For Chennai based North Indian Reema Amarlal, who is married to South Indian Senthil Kumar, this is her first Holi after her marriage. “My husband and I celebrated Holi with a few friends that we have made in this city. Coimbatore is a friendly city with nice people.” said 28-year-old homemaker, Reema.