Holi, known as the festival of colours, is one of the most cherished and vibrant occasions in India, deeply rooted in cultural and mythological significance. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Indian mythology, with stories depicting the triumph of good over evil. The most popular legend associated with the festival of Holi is the tale of Prahlad, where his devotion towards Lord Vishnu saves him from the evil intentions of his father and his sister Holika. On the eve of Holi, a bonfire is lit, symbolising the victory of Prahlad’s devotion to Lord Vishnu and the truth over negativity.
Holi, celebrated with various tales and customs across India, brings forth a range of vibrant festivities nationwide. From the flower-filled Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan to the playful Lathmar Holi in Rajasthan, the festival’s joy spreads far and wide. This year, Holi will be marked on March 25. If you’re unsure where to enjoy Holi 2024, don’t worry! Here’s a list of places where you can experience the colourful celebrations.
Holi, celebrated with various tales and customs across India, brings forth a range of vibrant festivities nationwide. From the flower-filled Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan to the playful Lathmar Holi in Rajasthan, the festival’s joy spreads far and wide. If you’re unsure where to enjoy Holi this year, don’t worry! Here’s a list of places where you can experience the colourful celebrations.
Phoolon Ki Holi In Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, is a truly special way to celebrate the festival. Instead of coloured powders, people use flower petals to play. Vrindavan is where Lord Krishna played as a child, so it’s a really spiritual place. During Phoolon Ki Holi, the streets and temples smell amazing because of all the flowers. Lots of people come from different places to experience this unique and beautiful celebration. It’s a magical way to enjoy Holi!
Lathmar Holi In Barsana, Uttar Pradesh
Lathmar Holi in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, is a lively celebration deeply tied to Hindu mythology. Barsana, Radha’s birthplace, hosts this event, where women playfully chase and beat men from neighbouring Nandgaon, believed to be Krishna’s village, with sticks. This playful reenactment symbolises the teasing between Radha and Krishna.
Elephant Festival In Jaipur, Rajasthan
The Elephant Festival in Jaipur coincides with Holi adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the festival of colours. Held at the Chaugan Stadium in Rajasthan, the elephants are adorned in colourful traditional attire who lead a grand procession. The highlight of this festival is the ‘Gaj Shringar’ ceremony, honouring the best-decorated elephant with a magnificent headdress. This immersive event is unforgettable for both locals and tourists.
Basant Utsab In Shantiniketan, West Bengal
In West Bengal’s Shantiniketan, Holi is celebrated as Basant Utsav, meaning Spring Festival. This special event was started by famous Bengali poet and Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. He made it an annual tradition at Vishva Bharati University. During Basanta Utsav, students dress in colourful spring clothes and perform cultural programmes for visitors, including dances to Tagore’s songs. Afterwards, everyone joins in the fun of throwing colours, just like in regular Holi celebrations.
Royal Holi Celebration In Udaipur, Rajasthan
The Holi celebration hosted by the royal family in Udaipur is a grand affair, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage. Led by the Maharana of Mewar, the royal procession begins at the City Palace, where guests witness some local performances while enjoying a lavish feast. The highlight is the “Holika Dahan” ceremony symbolising the victory of good over evil. The following day, the royal family and guests join in colourful Holi festivities, enjoying traditional delicacies.
Holi Celebration At Hampi, Karnataka
Heading south, you can experience lively Holi celebrations at Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka. The festivities start with bonfires representing the triumph of good over evil. The next day, people engage in colourful revelry, throwing colours and enjoying the festivities to the fullest. With music, dance, and joyful gatherings, the streets come alive as both locals and tourists partake in the fun. Holi in Hampi provides a special insight into India’s vibrant culture and traditions.
Holi Moo Festival In Dehradun And Goa
The Holi Moo festival in Goa and Dehradun is a special celebration that mixes traditional fun with modern music, art, and culture. It’s a safe and friendly event where everyone can enjoy playing Holi with eco-friendly colours. You’ll hear traditional Indian drums and see performances while enjoying tasty Indian and Western street food along with colorful Holi-themed cocktails. It’s a unique fun-loving experience for anyone.
Hola Mohalla Celebration In Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
Hola Mohalla is a big festival for the Sikh community, usually happening in March right after Holi. It was started by the 10th Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh, a long time ago. During the festival, you’ll see Nihangs, who are Sikh warriors, dressed in blue clothes. They show off their skills with swords and other weapons, and they also do martial arts like Gatka. This shows how Sikhs value self-discipline, being strong, and treating everyone equally, which are important parts of their faith.
Manjul Kuli in Kerala
Manjul Kuli is celebrated at the Konkani Temple in Cherlai, Cochin, Kerala, usually around the same time as Holi. On the first day, people gather at the temple for worship, and on the second day, they celebrate in a special way by using turmeric instead of colours. The festival features traditional music, dance, and feasting, highlighting the community’s culture and traditions.
Yosang in Manipur
Yosang is a famous festival in Manipur. It’s also called the “festival of colors” or “Yaosang” and is celebrated by the Meitei community, who are the largest group in Manipur. During Yosang, people take part in lots of fun activities like dancing, singing, and playing games. One of the best parts of Yosang is the Thabal Chongba dance. In this dance, boys and girls hold hands and dance around a bonfire to the beat of drums and stringed instruments.
These 10 places promise an amazing Holi experience where you will get to know India’s diverse culture and feel its festive spirit in full swing.
