Holi, the festival of colors, is one of India’s most lively and spirited celebrations, filled with colors, music, sweets, and endless fun. This year, the festival will be celebrated on March 14, according to Drik Panchang. It’s a time when people come together with family and friends to throw colors, enjoy traditional dishes, and indulge in sweets.
While this is the typical way Holi is celebrated, there are unique customs across India that add more charm to the festival. Here’s how Holi is celebrated in different regions of India:
Lathmar Holi
Lathmar Holi is a distinct tradition from Uttar Pradesh, celebrated in Barsana, the birthplace of Radha. In this lively celebration, women from Barsana chase and strike men from Nandgaon, Krishna’s village, with sticks, adding a playful and fun touch to the festival.
Phoolon Ki Holi
Phoolon Ki Holi, another unique tradition from Uttar Pradesh, is celebrated in Vrindavan, the childhood home of Lord Krishna. Instead of colored powders, people throw fragrant flower petals. Popular spots to experience this joyous tradition are the Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple.
Hola Mohalla
In Punjab, the Sikh community celebrates Hola Mohalla, a festival that highlights their strength and unity, started by Guru Gobind Singh. The event includes martial arts displays, mock battles, and vibrant processions, celebrating bravery and pride while bringing the community together.
Basanta Utsav
Basanta Utsav, held in Shantiniketan, West Bengal, offers a unique Holi experience inspired by Rabindranath Tagore. The festival features dance, music, and poetry, with students dressed in yellow and orange, singing Tagore’s songs, performing dances, and applying colors to each other. The celebration emphasizes literature, culture, and a peaceful, artistic approach to Holi.
Shigmo
Shigmo, a spring festival in Goa, celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. It’s one of the largest festivals in Goa, marked by vibrant music, dance, and color-throwing. The streets are filled with grand parades, and traditional music is played with instruments like dhol, taasha, and kasale.
Rang Panchami
Rang Panchami, celebrated in Maharashtra, takes place on the fifth day after the full moon. During this time, people gather with loved ones to sing folk songs, dance to traditional beats, and apply colors, embracing the festive spirit and enjoying the joyous atmosphere.
