Safety during Holi?

My 15-year old daughter and I are traveling to Jaipur next week to volunteer for two weeks at a medical clinic and school. At first we were glad we would be in India when Holi occurred. It sounded like fun. Now, though, I've ready from multiple sources that it would be a big mistake for two women to venture out into the streets that day, especially in the morning. I'm not sure what to do, because we do have to head to our volunteer commitments that morning, which are in a fairly difficult area of the city. Any advice would be much appreciated!

My first reaction after reading your post was to tell you to stay in your hotel (I'm from Jaipur, and there now). Now typically nothing happens by way of work on Holi morning - it is a gazetted holiday and even the smallest of private businesses are closed. If people do show up it is to play holi. I suggest you check once with your local volunteer contact if you're needed to head out that morning as well (by late afternoon, festivities and associated rowdiness die down).

Jaipur doesn't have the worst rep in this regard, However, I would suggest VA's sage advice to ask locally. Then take my late father in law's advice to ask 3 Indians and go with the majority. In any case women should go with family or friends. Done right its a great opportunity. My boy seeks that out..

No you don't
Everything will be closed on Holi morning(unless you are part of emergency services - which are not volunteer commitments anyway) and there is no question of going to work.

I recommend that you enjoy Holi with your daughter and plan this colorful festival with your local host in Jaipur. Avoid mingling with strangers whom you do not know. Happy safe Holi.