Colours of Unity: Exploring diverse Holi celebrations across India

As the days grow warmer and the breeze carries whispers of anticipation, it heralds the arrival of a joyous occasion that can unite hearts and paint the world in hues of happiness. Yes, you guessed it right! It’s to play Holi! It is more than just a Festival of Colours. It is a celebration of unity that transcends barriers of age, caste, and creed, bringing people from all walks of life together in a joyous embrace.

So, as we eagerly await the arrival of Holi, let us embrace the spirit of this beautiful festival with open arms in different ways. As the culture of each state is distinct, so are their celebrations. Let’s soak ourselves in the vibrant hues and learn how this special occasion is celebrated in various ways in various states.

Lathmar Holi – Uttar Pradesh

We all have at least once in our lives heard of the most common Lathmar Holi. It is a popular celebration held in Uttar Pradesh that has a very different approach to the Holi festivities. It finds its origins in Hindu mythology. It is believed that Lord Krishna tried to tease Radha and play Holi with her in her village Barsana. The local women got angry and chased him away with lathis.

Women wield lathis or canes, playfully targeting men and boys during the festive revelries. Meanwhile, men arm themselves with dhals, and or shields to fend off the playful strikes. If caught by the women, the men humorously don female attire and dance in the streets. This playful exchange, rooted in jest, fosters a sense of mirth.

Phoolon Ki Holi – Vrindavan

Our journey continues to Phoolon ki Holi which is broadly celebrated and enthusiastically played at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. Here, devotees of Lord Krishna engage in fervent festivities, but instead of vibrant colours and water, they use fresh flower petals. Unlike the typical Holi festival, this is a spiritual journey, focused on connecting with the God of love and joy by showering him with flowers.

Rang Panchami – Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Rang Panchami marks a vibrant celebration preceding phalgun purnima, where the festivities know no bounds. Inspired by the mischievous antics of Lord Krishna and his friends, who famously stole butter from their neighbours, this tradition is upheld in Mumbai and various cities across Maharashtra as part of Krishna Leela. 

As much as the name implies, to recreate these playful moments, pandals are erected, featuring pot-breaking ceremonies. Pots are suspended at great heights, while boys form human pyramids to reach them. Women join the fun, splashing water and colors to deter them. This spirited spectacle injects joy and vitality into the urban hustle and bustle of city life.

Hola Mohalla – Punjab

While every other state has set its spirits high, Punjab takes no back seat. Venturing northward to sadda Punjab, we uncover a fascinating twist to the Holi festivities. Here, Holi takes on the name of Holla Mohalla and is observed a day after the traditional Holi celebrations. However, it’s not the usual riot of colours as much as in other states. Lionised by Sikh Guru Gobind Singh, it is a solemn tribute to the valour of Sikh Warriors.

This unique celebration is synonymous with the Nihang Sikhs, a distinct sector within Sikhism. The heart of the festivities lies in the showcasing of traditional martial arts, a testament to the bravery and strength of the Sikh community.

Dol Jatra aka Basant Utsav – West Bengal

As West Bengal is renowned as the epitome of festive fervour, Holi holds a special significance as it coincides with the birth anniversary of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. During Basant Utsav, students and teachers of Visva-Bharati University in Shantiniketan come together to celebrate with cultural performances, traditional dances, and songs. One of the highlights of Basant Utsav is the procession known as Peshwai’ or Prabhat Pheri, where participants sing and dance through the streets, spreading joy and happiness.

Unlike the boisterous celebrations elsewhere, Holi in West Bengal is subdued yet festive, offering a graceful alternative for those seeking a more moderate approach to the festivities.