Work

Holi crimes: The impact of a public festivity on violence against women

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Many women experience physical or sexual violence, often in public spaces. We study the role of gender norms in perpetuating this violence by analyzing Holi, a festivity in India, where the phrase “Bura na mano Holi Hai” (Don’t feel offended, it’s Holi) is misused to justify inappropriate behavior. We document a 170% increase in assaults against women during Holi. Analysis reveals (1) higher violence in districts where men justify violence, and (2) a male backlash effect where women oppose it. Underreporting and reduced mobility during Holi do not appear to be the main drivers. To date, nobody has been convicted.

Source: Journal of Development Economics

DOI: 10.1016/j.jdeveco.2025.103543

Authors: Rubén Poblete-Cazenave, Claudia Martínez V.

Institutions: Tinbergen Institute, Erasmus University Rotterdam

Language: English

Topic: Intimate Partner and Family Violence

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,590