Holi Across India: Different Ways the Festival is Celebrated in Various States
Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, joy, and togetherness, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. While the essence of Holi remains the same—welcoming spring and the victory of good over evil—the traditions and customs vary from state to state. From the vibrant Holi powder showers in the north to the serene temple rituals in the south, each region adds its unique charm to the festival. As the shloka says:
“वसन्ते वासन्तिके काले, माधवेन सह प्रिया।
रमेते रंगक्रीडायां, हृष्यते माधवः सदा॥”
“In spring, Madhava (Krishna) rejoices in the festival of colors, delighting in playful games with his beloved.”
Let’s explore how Holi is celebrated across different states of India.
Lathmar Holi – Uttar Pradesh
One of the most famous Holi celebrations takes place in Barsana and Nandgaon, the birthplace of Radha and Krishna. Known as Lathmar Holi, this tradition involves women playfully hitting men with sticks (lathis), reenacting a divine episode from Krishna’s life. Devotees also visit Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, where Holi celebrations continue for days, showering the crowd with gulal (holi powder) and flower petals. The joyous chants of Krishna’s name fill the air, echoing his divine presence in every color.
Phoolon ki Holi – Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
At the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, a special Holi known as Phoolon ki Holi (Holi of flowers) is celebrated. Instead of colored powders, devotees shower each other with flowers, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere of devotion and love. As Krishna’s devotees immerse themselves in this divine play, they remember:
“धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः, पापं दूरं प्रवर्तते।
होली पर्व मनुष्यानां, सुखदं शान्तिदायकम्॥”
“Dharma protects those who uphold it, and sin is driven away. The festival of Holi brings happiness and peace to mankind.”
Rang Panchami – Holi In Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Holi celebrations begin with Holika Dahan, where bonfires are lit to symbolize the burning of evil. The next day, people indulge in playing with Holi powder, pichkaris (water guns), and colored water. In many parts of the state, the festival continues until Rang Panchami, five days after Holi, with vibrant processions and music. The festival reminds people of the ultimate truth—goodness will always prevail over darkness.
Dol Jatra – West Bengal Holi
West Bengal celebrates Dol Jatra, a more spiritual and cultural version of Holi. Devotees carry idols of Bhagwan Krishna and Radha on palanquins, singing devotional songs. The festival is associated with Shantiniketan’s Basanta Utsav, started by Rabindranath Tagore, where people dress in yellow attire and play with natural colors.
Hola Mohalla – Holi In Punjab
In Punjab, Hola Mohalla is a warrior-like Holi celebrated by the Sikh community, particularly at Anandpur Sahib. This festival, introduced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, features mock battles, martial arts demonstrations, and processions, along with traditional Holi celebrations.
Royal Holi – Rajasthan Holi
Rajasthan hosts an elegant Holi celebration, particularly in Udaipur and Jaipur, where royal families participate in the festivities. The celebration includes elephant parades, traditional folk dances, and grand feasts. Locals and tourists alike enjoy playing Holi with gulal and pichkaris.
Shigmo – Holi Celebrations in Goa
Holi in Goa is called Shigmo, a festival of colors combined with vibrant folk performances. It marks the arrival of spring, with processions featuring decorated floats, traditional Goan music, and enthusiastic dance performances.
Yaosang – Manipur
Manipur’s version of Holi, known as Yaosang, is a six-day celebration. The festivities include Thabal Chongba, a traditional Manipuri dance, and the use of natural colors made from flowers and herbs. Devotees also participate in cultural programs and prayers dedicated to Bhagwan Krishna.
Kaman Pandigai – Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, Holi is known as Kaman Pandigai, associated with the legend of Kamadeva, the god of love. Devotees light bonfires to commemorate Kamadeva’s sacrifice for Bhagwan Shiva. The celebration is relatively subtle but filled with devotion and festive joy.
Holi in Gujarat – The Celebration of Krishna
Gujarat celebrates Holi with grandeur, particularly in Dwarka, where devotees honor Bhagwan Krishna’s Ras Leela. The festival also features the tradition of breaking the Dahi Handi, similar to Janmashtami, where young boys form human pyramids to reach and break an earthen pot filled with buttermilk.
Holi Across India
Holi is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural tapestry woven with colors, traditions, and divine stories. Whether you are playing Holi with powder, dancing with pichkaris, or immersing in devotional songs, the festival unites people in joy and celebration. No matter where you are in India, the spirit of Hindu festival Holi remains the same—spreading happiness, love, and togetherness.
How do you celebrate Holi? Let us know in the comments! Wishing you a very Happy Holi! 🎨✨
