Holi, the vibrant festival that celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil, is observed in numerous ways across India. While the festival typically involves throwing colours, each region adds its unique twist, creating unforgettable experiences for those who celebrate it.
Let’s dive into some unique Holi celebrations across India.
1. Lathmar Holi – Barsana, Uttar Pradesh
In the small town of Barsana, Holi takes on a playful and historic twist with Lathmar Holi. This tradition is rooted in the legend of Lord Krishna’s mischievous visits to the home of his beloved Radha. During the festival, men from the neighbouring town of Nandgaon visit Barsana, only to be chased away by the women lathis (wielding sticks). The men try to defend themselves with playful banter, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, music, and coloured powders. The energetic “battle” makes Lathmar Holi a unique and fun celebration.
2. Holi with flowers – Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
In Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Holi is celebrated with a serene and fragrant twist. Known as ‘Holi with Flowers’, this unique celebration replaces the usual coloured powders with marigold, rose, and jasmine petals. Devotees gather in the temples of Vrindavan, where they shower each other with flowers, recreating the divine play between Radha and Krishna. The atmosphere is peaceful, with the scent of fresh blossoms filling the air, offering a much quieter celebration of the festival.
3. Shigmo – Goa
In Goa, Holi is celebrated as Shigmo, a festival that combines the joy of colours with traditional Goan folk music and dance. The festival is marked by vibrant processions and street parades, featuring people dressed in colourful costumes performing dances that celebrate the arrival of spring. While Holi’s typical colour fights are present, Shigmo stands out for its focus on Goan culture, with traditional performances and music that bring the streets of Goa to life.
4. Royal Holi – Udaipur, Rajasthan
In Udaipur, Holi takes on a royal flair. Known as Royal Holi, the festival is celebrated within the stunning City Palace, where the royal family participates in the festivities. The palace’s majestic backdrop adds an air of grandeur to the event. Locals and visitors alike are invited to join in the celebrations, which include colourful powders, traditional Rajasthani music, and folk dance performances. It’s a blend of royal heritage and Holi joy, making Udaipur’s celebration a truly unique experience.
5. Basanta Utsav – Shantiniketan, West Bengal
In Shantiniketan, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Holi is celebrated as Basanta Utsav (Spring Festival). Unlike the loud and chaotic celebrations seen elsewhere, Basanta Utsav is a celebration of art, culture, and nature. Students and teachers wear yellow (symbolising the colours of spring) and perform Tagore’s songs and dances. The focus here is on artistic expression, creating a serene, creative atmosphere that celebrates not just the arrival of spring but also the beauty of art and community.
6. Manjal Kuli – Kerala
In Kerala, Holi is celebrated as Manjal Kuli, a unique festival where participants smear each other with manjal (turmeric), which gives them a golden yellow hue. Unlike other regions where coloured powders are thrown, here, turmeric is used for its supposed purifying properties. The festival is deeply rooted in the region’s devotional practices, particularly in temples like the Sri Krishna Temple in Guruvayur. It is both a colourful and sacred way to mark the occasion, combining the joyous spirit of Holi with Kerala’s spiritual customs.
Edited by Arunava Banerjee
