Holi is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Hindus and it is celebrated across India and Nepal. Mostly it is celebrated with splashing colours on each other however, there are some unique celebrations of Holi in different regions of India. Let’s see some of the most unique Holi celebrations:
1. Lathmar Holi, Barsana
Lathmar Holi is a unique and playful Holi tradition that is celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon. It depicts Lord Krishna visit to Barsana, where he playfully teased Radha and her friends (other Gopis). In this Holi celebration women playfully hit men with lathis (sticks), while men protect themselves with shields. This unique celebration cannot be found in any other place. You must visit here and experience this unique Holi celebration symbolizing love, tradition and fun.
2. Masan Holi, Varanasi
Masan Holi celebrated at Manikaranika Ghat in Kashi (Banaras), is definitely one of the most unique and mystical Holi celebrations. Manikarnika Ghat is one of India’s most sacred cremation sites. Here Aghoris, sadhu and then people join to celebrate Holi with the ashes from cremation pyres instead of colours. Masan Holi reflects Kashi’s deep-rooted traditions, where life and death coexist, making it one of the most extraordinary Holi celebrations in India.
3. Holi in Anandpur, Punjab
Holi in Anandpur Sahib, is celebrated as Hola Mohalla, a unique Sikh festival that showcases martial arts, bravery, and tradition. This is a unique Holi celebration, where Nihang warriors performing Gatka (Sikh martial arts), sword fighting, horse riding, and mock battles. Started by Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, it symbolizes strength and valour of Sikh community. You can also experience this Punjabi Holi in other parts of Punjab. Hola Mohalla festival is a must-visit for those seeking a unique Holi experience and wants to know about the warrior spirit of Sikh community.
4. Phoolon Ki Holi, Vrindavan
Phoolon Ki Holi is another unique Holi celebration that is celebrated on the Land of Lord Krishna, Vrindavan in Bake Bihari temple. Here flowers replace traditional colours making it a beautiful and enchanting celebration symbolizing love and devotion. Here priests shower devotees with vibrant flower petals, making the air filled with fragrance and joy. You should definitely attend this flower Holi for a magical and enchanting experience.
5. Yaoshang, Manipur
You can find a very unique version of Holi in Manipur known as Yaoshang. It is a six-day spring festival blending traditional Meitei culture with the spirit of colours. This unique Holi celebration also features Thabal Chongba, a traditional Manipuri folk dance performed under the moonlight, even sports and other cultural performance are an integral part of the celebrations. You should definitely experience this distinctive and vibrant celebration in Manipur.
6. Kumaoni Holi, Uttarakhand
Kumaoni holi is celebrated in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, it is a unique blend of musical, and cultural festival deeply rooted in tradition. This unique Holi is divided into three forms namely Baithki Holi, Khadi Holi, and Mahila Holi. Celebrating Kumaoni Holi will give you an opportunity to explore the Kumaoni culture, tradition and incredible natural beauty of the place.
7. Manjal Kuli, Kerala
Unlike other parts of India Holi in Kerala is not celebrated with colour splashing tradition, but with manjal (turmeric) water. Manjal Kuli is celebrated by Kudumbi community and is also known as Ukuli. This distinct way of celebrating Holi symbolizes purity and prosperity.
- Shigmo, Goa
- Dola Holi, Odisha
- Holi in Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh
These are also very unique Holi celebration that you should experience at least once.
Until next time, keep travelling and take care of Nature.