Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Holi, the Hindu festival of colours, is one of the most vibrant and joyful celebrations around the world. Marking the arrival of spring, it’s a time for dancing, singing, and most famously, throwing colourful powders in the air to spread joy and positivity. While Holi originated in India, London has embraced the festival with open arms, offering a variety of events and experiences for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re in London this March, here’s a guide to the best Holi events and experiences you can attend this year. From colour-filled outdoor parties to special menus at top restaurants, these events will let you immerse yourself in the spirit of Holi.
Top Holi events in London (2025)
Whether you are keen to join an open-air Holi celebration or dive into a more cultural experience, these 13 events are perfect for getting into the festival spirit.
Experience the festival of coloursiStock
1. Wembley Bollywood Holi Festival
When: 14th March, 5:00 PM – 11:45 PM
Where: TRADER Wembley, 87 Ealing Rd, Wembley Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bollywood at this high-energy festival. Expect vibrant colours, live DJs, and a variety of Indian street food stalls. It's perfect for anyone who loves Bollywood music and dance.
2. Crazegroup Holi 2025
When: 15th March, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Hampton Wick Royal Cricket Club, Bushy Park, Kingston upon Thames For a family-friendly celebration, head to Hampton Wick Royal Cricket Club. Enjoy live music, traditional Holi games, and a welcoming community atmosphere perfect for all ages.
3. Magic of India Holi
When: 16th March, 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Where: Waterlow Park, Highgate Hill, London Magic of India brings a touch of tradition to the Holi celebrations with Bollywood dancing, live music, and Dhol drummers. Families are encouraged to join in the colourful festivities in this picturesque park setting.
4. House of Holi
When: 8th – 16th March, timings vary
Where: Liverpool Street, London Step into a "Holi pod" at House of Holi and enjoy a thrilling half-hour of colour-throwing in a festive, vibrant atmosphere. Complemented by delicious Indian street food and live music, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.
5. Balam Pichkari
When: 16th March, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: JFS School, The Mall, Harrow For those looking to celebrate in a more local setting, Balam Pichkari in Harrow is the perfect event. With live performances, colour splashes, and delicious food, it’s a great option for families and community members.
6. Holi Festival of Joy and Colours
When: 15th March, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Haverstock School, London This family-friendly event offers a lively mix of traditional music, fun activities for kids, and colourful Holi powder. It’s a great way to experience the festival in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
7. Ude Re Gulal – The biggest open-air Holi
When: 15th March, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Roe Green Park, Kingsbury, London One of London’s biggest outdoor Holi festivals, this event promises a lively celebration filled with music, dance, and colour. With food stalls and live entertainment, it’s perfect for large groups and festival-goers.
8. Vrindavan Ki Holi London Mei Hogi
When: 15th March, 1:00 PM
Where: Tudor Park Sports and Leisure, Feltham Experience the joy of Vrindavan-style Holi with this spiritual celebration. Enjoy traditional devotional music and join the crowd in an uplifting day of colour-throwing and cultural festivities.
9. London’s Holi Festival – Rang Barze
When: 15th March, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Hackney Bridge, Echo Building, London Celebrate Holi in the creative atmosphere of Hackney Bridge with live DJs, street food, and a massive colour-throwing session. This trendy event offers a unique twist on the traditional celebration.
10. London ki Holi Festival 2025
When: 15th March, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Hainault Skatepark, Ilford Make the most of Holi with a full day of colour and entertainment at London ki Holi Festival. Featuring live performances, DJs, and plenty of colour throwing, this event is perfect for those who want to celebrate the festival to the fullest.
11. The London Biggest Holi Festival
When: 15th – 16th March
Where: Brentford Studios, Kew Bridge Distribution Centre, London This two-day celebration brings together Holi enthusiasts from all over the city. With multiple stages featuring live music, DJs, and vibrant colour parties, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.
12. London Holi Fest
When: 15th March, 5:00 PM
Where: Cranford Community College, Hounslow Enjoy a vibrant, family-friendly Holi festival in Hounslow, complete with music, dancing, and lots of colourful powder. It’s a great way to introduce children to the festival and get the whole family involved.
13. Holi at Standard London
When: Various Dates
Where: The Standard, London Celebrate Holi in style at The Standard London, where vibrant cocktails, live music, and delicious Indian food make for a luxurious experience. It’s a unique blend of modern luxury and traditional Holi celebrations.
Where to eat and drink to celebrate Holi in London
If you prefer a more culinary approach to the festivities, there are several London restaurants offering special Holi-themed menus and experiences. From multicoloured momos to Indian-inspired cocktails, these spots are perfect for a more laid-back yet festive experience.
Holi is the perfect excuse to indulge in a rainbow of flavoursiStock
14. Babur’s Holi Party
When: March 13–16
Where: Babur, 119 Brockley Rise, SE23 1JP Indulge in a special five-course tasting menu at Babur’s Holi Party, where you’ll find colourful and flavourful dishes like Rang Barse Dahi Vad (lentil doughnut with sweet yoghurt) and Rangoli Gulab Jamun Ki Chat (multicoloured milk dumplings). Tickets for the party on March 13th are £70pp, including a welcome drink and live entertainment.
15. Desi Daru Vodka at The May Fair Bar
When: March 13–15
Where: The May Fair Bar, Stratton St, W1J 8LT Toast to Holi with the special ‘Exuberance’ cocktail, a refreshing blend of mango, Desi Daru vodka, jaggery, and aromatic Indian spices. Served with a bespoke snack, this limited-edition cocktail is available for £10.
16. Cinnamon Kitchen’s House of Holi
When: Until March 16
Where: Cinnamon Kitchen, Western Courtyard, Devonshire Square, EC2M 4Y Join Cinnamon Kitchen for their famous House of Holi event, where guests can throw colours and enjoy a delicious Holi-inspired menu featuring traditional Indian dishes and cocktails. Tickets start at £10.
17. Eat Momo’s multicoloured momos
When: March 10–16
Where: Eat Momo, Arch 229, 1 Bank End, London, SE1 9FJ Enjoy vibrant, multicoloured momos at Eat Momo, made with natural dyes from turmeric, spinach, and beetroot. A special collaboration between top chefs, these Holi-inspired dumplings are as
The doll features a glucose monitor, insulin pump and CGM app
Created in collaboration with type 1 diabetes charity Breakthrough T1D
Part of Mattel’s broader push for inclusivity and representation in toys
Barbie with type 1 diabetes joins inclusive fashionistas range
Mattel has launched its first diabetes Barbie doll, designed to represent children with type 1 diabetes and promote greater inclusivity in children’s toys.
The new addition to the Barbie Fashionistas line comes with realistic medical features including a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm, secured with heart-shaped medical tape, and an insulin pump to help manage her blood sugar levels. She also carries a smartphone with a CGM app to monitor glucose throughout the day, and a bag large enough to store snacks and other essentials.
Designed in partnership with Breakthrough T1D
The diabetes Barbie doll was developed in collaboration with Breakthrough T1D, a global not-for-profit organisation supporting people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The autoimmune condition typically develops in childhood and requires patients to monitor their blood glucose and take insulin regularly.
Krista Berger, senior vice-president of Barbie and global head of dolls, described the launch as “an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation.”
“Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love,” she said.
Karen Addington, CEO of Breakthrough T1D UK, welcomed the collaboration: “I’m absolutely thrilled that Barbie now includes a doll with type 1 diabetes. For children with T1D who don’t often see themselves represented, this doll will be a powerful role model, celebrating their strength and bringing recognition, inclusion and joy to their play.”
A growing legacy of inclusive design
Since the original Barbie’s debut in 1959, the brand has evolved to reflect greater diversity. The first Black Barbie dolls were introduced in the 1960s, followed by Hispanic dolls in the 1980s. From the 1990s onwards, Mattel expanded the range to include Barbies in under-represented careers such as astronauts and scientists.
It wasn’t until 2019 that Barbie dolls with visible disabilities were introduced. Since then, Mattel has launched more than 175 diverse Barbie looks as part of the Fashionistas range, which now includes dolls with hearing aids, prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, vitiligo, and Down’s syndrome. A black Barbie with Down’s syndrome and a blind Barbie are also part of the line.
The diabetes Barbie doll continues that trend, offering children with the condition a chance to see themselves positively reflected in their toys.
Industry-wide shift toward representation
Barbie is not the only toy brand prioritising diversity. UK-based brand Lottie includes dolls with autism and Down’s syndrome, while Lego offers a variety of inclusive minifigures, including characters with physical and non-visible disabilities.
Arjun Panesar, founding chief executive of Diabetes.co.uk, praised Mattel’s decision, stating: “Representation matters – especially in childhood. Seeing a Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes helps normalise the condition, reduce stigma and show children that they are not alone.
“It’s a positive step forward in building confidence, inclusion and understanding around living with diabetes.”
Promoting empathy through play
The launch of the diabetes Barbie doll is not just about inclusion—it is also part of Mattel’s mission to extend the boundaries of imaginative play. The company says the goal is to encourage children to engage with experiences beyond their own, helping them to understand the challenges others may face.
As Barbie continues to evolve, the inclusion of realistic medical conditions such as type 1 diabetes signals a more inclusive future for toys and the children who play with them.
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Italian-born French fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli
“In difficult times fashion is always outrageous.” – Elsa Schiaparelli.
The Victoria & Albert Museum has announced its first ever UK exhibition dedicated to Elsa Schiaparelli, the visionary designer who blurred the boundaries between fashion, art and performance. Titled Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art, it runs from 21 March to 1 November 2026 in the Sainsbury Gallery and will draw on the V&A’s status as home to Britain’s National Collection of Dress and its foremost collection of Schiaparelli garments.
Vogue 1940; Designer Elsa Schiaparelli wearing black silk dress with crocheted collar of her own design and a turbanFredrich Baker/Condé Nast via Getty Images
Exhibition scope and highlights
Over 200 objects across media: garments, accessories, jewellery, perfume bottles, paintings, photographs, sculpture, furniture and archival sketches.
Iconic pieces on display:
The ‘Skeleton’ dress (with Salvador Dalí)
The ‘Tears’ dress and the surreal shoe hat (with Jean Cocteau)
Archive objects from Schiaparelli’s London branch, highlighting her dynamic UK clientele
Accompanying artworks by Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau and Man Ray
A survey of the brand’s modern era under creative director Daniel Roseberry, whose sculptural gowns have dressed Zendaya, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga and Doja Cat
“Schiaparelli’s collaboration with artists and the world of performance makes her an ideal subject,” said V&A Director Tristram Hunt, calling the show “a celebration of one of fashion’s most daring innovators.”
Delphine Bellini, CEO of Schiaparelli, adds: “Elsa Schiaparelli’s fearless imagination and radical vision redefined the boundaries between fashion and art.”
'Tears' Evening dress and head veil, designed by Elsa Schiaparelli, February 1938 for Circus Collection, summer 1938. Fabric designed by Salvador Dali Victoria and Albert Museum, London
From Paris salons to the Met Gala red carpet
Long before the V&A’s announcement, Natasha Poonawalla brought Schiaparelli’s surrealist drama to global attention. In 2022, she paired a gold Schiaparelli corset with a Sabyasachi sari, styled by Anaita Shroff Adajania. A year later, she returned to the Met Gala in a futuristic silver Schiaparelli gown, both moments underlining how Indian influencers are shaping today’s couture conversation.
Natasha Poonawalla attends The 2022 Met GalaGetty Images
Curators, press details and what’s next
Curated by Sonnet Stanfill, Lydia Caston and Rosalind McKever, the show is the first UK retrospective focusing on Schiaparelli’s output from the 1920s to 1954 and its present day revival.
Tickets on sale autumn 2025
Accompanied by a fully illustrated V&A catalogue, available autumn 2026
Part of the V&A’s major fashion exhibition series following Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams and Naomi: In Fashion
Vogue 1936; Two models, standing in a white room with arrows painted on walls and wearing dresses by Schiaparelli;Cecil Beaton/Condé Nast via Getty Images
What it means for South Asian style
This isn’t just a show for fashion students and couture fans. It’s a chance to see how a radical female designer redefined beauty and power, and how that legacy continues through Indian influencers like Poonawalla, who proudly bring together cultural identity with high fashion on the world stage.
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Lewis clarifies legal rights for online and in-store purchases
Martin Lewis flags incorrect return rights information on 30 retail websites
Retailers include New Look, The Range, and Selfridges
Lewis clarifies legal rights for online and in-store purchases
Trading Standards to be alerted following MoneySavingExpert.com investigation
Martin Lewis highlights return rights confusion
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has issued a warning to UK consumers after uncovering misleading returns information on the websites of 30 major retailers, including New Look, The Range, and Selfridges.
Speaking on ITV1's Good Morning Britain, Lewis explained that several retailers are presenting incorrect information about return rights for online shoppers — in some cases, underplaying the legal protections customers are entitled to.
In a tweet posted after the segment aired, Lewis wrote: “30 retailers including Selfridges, New Look and The Range are publishing misleading (worse) return rights information on their websites than you legally have. Find which stores to be cautious with, and what your rights are.”
Legal rights for online shoppers
During his TV appearance, Martin Lewis clarified that consumers who shop online — as opposed to in-store — benefit from legal protections under the Consumer Contracts Regulations.
“If you buy something online, unless it is personalised or perishable, you have an absolute right to change your mind,” he said. “You have 14 days after delivery — important it’s after delivery, not after order — in which to tell the retailer you're returning it. Then you have another 14 days to send it back. That gives you up to 28 days.”
He also stressed the distinction between online and in-store shopping: “If you buy something in-store, you have no legal right to return it unless it’s faulty. Some shops do allow returns as part of their policy, and if they publish that, it becomes part of the contract. But legally, there is no obligation unless the item is defective.”
Incorrect wording found on retailer websites
Lewis and his team at MoneySavingExpert.com identified numerous cases where retailers had not correctly stated consumers’ legal rights on their websites.
One such example involved New Look, where the website stated: “You can return sale items within 14 days.” Lewis responded: “No! You can notify them within 14 days and you’ve got another 14 days to send it back.”
He also flagged a misleading policy by home and garden retailer The Range, which read: “You need to return your item to us at our Range marketplace partner within 14 days of receiving it.” Lewis explained: “No. You have 14 days from receiving it to notify that you’re returning it and a further 14 days to complete the return.”
He went on to say: “We found 30 examples. What’s really frustrating is that two of those — Monsoon and New Look — had the same issue back in 2018 when we last reviewed this. We notified them then, and they still have it wrong now. So we’re taking our evidence to Trading Standards.”
Retailers respond
In response to the findings, a spokesperson for New Look said: “We thank MoneySavingExpert.com for bringing this to our attention. While our current policies comply with statutory return rights, we have updated the wording on our website to ensure greater clarity for our customers. Customers have 14 days to notify us that they’ve changed their mind on items bought online in our sale, and a further 14 days to make the return.”
Consumers are encouraged to review their rights when shopping online and refer to trusted sources like the Money Saving Expert website for accurate advice. The full list of the 30 retailers identified can be found there.
The Daily Express has also contacted The Range and other retailers mentioned in the investigation for further comment.
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Collins accepted the findings of the ASA’s investigation
Instagram post by Gemma Collins promoting Yazen weight-loss service banned
ASA rules it breached regulations on promoting prescription-only medication
Eight other weight-loss ads also banned in regulatory crackdown
ASA bans Collins' Instagram advert
An Instagram post by TV personality Gemma Collins promoting a weight-loss drug and digital service has been banned by the UK’s advertising watchdog for breaching regulations around prescription-only medicines.
Collins had shared a promotional video on 6 January 2025, stating: “I’m starting this year two sizes down, thanks to Yazen’s weight loss app and medication.” The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ruled that the post unlawfully promoted prescription-only medication to the public.
Prescription medication references breached rules
Yazen, a Swedish digital healthcare company, provides a doctor-supervised weight-loss programme which includes prescription drugs alongside lifestyle coaching. While Collins did not name a specific drug in the advert, she referenced the medication being “prescribed on the NHS”.
The ASA said it consulted the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which concluded that viewers were likely to interpret the advert as encouragement to seek prescription weight-loss medication.
As a result, the ASA found that the advert breached its code by promoting prescription-only treatments directly to the public. This type of promotion is prohibited under UK advertising regulations.
Collins accepted the findings of the ASA’s investigation and confirmed that she would follow the relevant guidance in future social media promotions.
Eight other ads also banned
Collins’ post was one of nine adverts banned in the ASA’s latest enforcement action targeting weight-loss drug promotions. The watchdog stated that all of the adverts promoted prescription-only treatments to consumers, a practice not allowed under UK law.
The other banned adverts included:
A Meta ad by CheqUp Health stating: “Take the first step to sustainable weight loss with CheqUp.”
A Meta ad by HealthExpress.co.uk, featuring an injection pen image and rule-breaching claims.
A Google ad for Juniper UK describing “GLP-1 Weekly Weight Loss Injection” with an injection pen image.
Two Google ads for Phlo Clinic, one offering “35% off Weight Loss Order” and another promoting “Weight loss Injections.”
A Google ad for SemaPen claiming, “SemaPen Makes Weight Loss Easier.”
A Meta ad by Cloud Pharmacy using text message imagery referencing new weight-loss medication.
A Google ad for pharmacyonline.co.uk stating “Obesity Treatment Jab” with an image of a medication vial.
The ASA ruled that none of these adverts should appear again in their current form. The regulator said it will continue to monitor the promotion of weight-loss services involving prescription medication, particularly on digital platforms.
Discover hidden UK beaches with turquoise waters and golden sands
Ideal for summer staycations without the cost of long-haul travel
Includes lesser-known spots in Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, and more
Perfect for quiet escapes, coastal walks, and Instagram-worthy views
Escape to paradise – no passport required
Think you need to fly halfway across the world for clear blue water and white sand? Think again. The UK is home to a surprising number of secluded beaches that look straight out of the Caribbean – without the crowds or jet lag. From hidden coves in Cornwall to windswept bays in the Scottish Highlands, here are some of the most tropical-looking beaches on British soil.
1. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Often dubbed the UK’s answer to the Caribbean, this National Trust-owned gem boasts golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Accessed by a half-mile walk from Stackpole Quay, it remains blissfully untouched by development.
Best for: Picnics, photography, and a peaceful swim Nearest parking: Stackpole Quay car park
2. Achmelvich Bay, Sutherland, Scotland
Many of these beaches are tidal and best enjoyed at low tideiStock
With white sands and dazzling turquoise water, this beach in the remote northwest Highlands rivals beaches anywhere in the world. The journey is long, but the views – and near-solitude – make it worth every mile.
Tucked beneath rugged cliffs near Porthcurno, this tidal beach is often reached via a steep cliff path – but rewards visitors with stunning sandbars and glassy water at low tide. It’s also unofficially clothing-optional.
Best for: Adventurous walkers, secluded sunbathing Access: Steep footpath from Treen
4. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides
Framed by the turquoise seaiStock
Arguably one of Britain’s most spectacular beaches, Luskentyre’s vast white sands stretch for miles, framed by the turquoise sea and Harris’s dramatic hills. When the sun shines, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Scotland.
Best for: Landscape lovers, long coastal walks How to get there: Ferry from Skye to Tarbert, then a 25-minute drive
5. Kynance Cove, Cornwall
It’s best visited early or late in the dayiStock
With its striking serpentine rock formations, teal-coloured waters, and hidden caves, Kynance is a postcard-perfect Cornish cove. Its popularity means it’s best visited early or late in the day.
Best for: Exploring caves, paddling Nearby: Kynance Cove Café (seasonal)