India, a land of diversity, celebrates Holi in various colourful ways, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring, defining unity and joy across the nation. Despite regional variations, the essence of Holi remains consistent. Whether it’s Lathmar Holi in Uttar Pradesh or the royal Holi in Udaipur, these variations highlight India’s rich cultural diversity, where each region adds its unique flair to celebrate the festival of colours, making it a truly vibrant and inclusive festival cherished by millions across the country. Here are some unique ways these states celebrate the festival.
UDAIPUR: Starting from the northwestern region of the country, Udaipur’s Holi celebration embodies tradition and grandeur just like the city. Rooted in the legacy of the Mewar royal family, the festivities commence with the symbolic burning of Holika’s effigy. Led by the current administrator, a regal horse procession accompanied by the royal band ensures that it captivates spectators from all over the world who visit Udaipur during the festival. This annual spectacle honours heritage while embracing the vibrant spirit of Holi, making Udaipur’s celebration a truly magnificent affair.
PUNJAB:
Known as Holla Mohalla, celebrated further north in Punjab, the celebration is a unique twist on Holi, honouring Sikh Warriors’ bravery. Occurring a day after Holi, it’s a vibrant display of Nihang Sikh culture where the festivities feature traditional martial arts and demonstrations followed by lively music and dancing. This cultural fusion highlights the rich heritage and valour of the Sikh community in northern India.
VRINDAVAN:
In the vibrant Holi celebration in the state of Uttar Pradesh, widows residing in Vrindavan’s ashrams unite and smear each other with colours. These widowed women typically lead joyless lives. However, on this occasion, they gather, embracing the hues of Holi, momentarily freed from their sorrows, revelling in the camaraderie and festivity and finding solace in shared moments of joy.
UTTAR PRADESH:
Lathmar Holi, celebrated in the local Bhojpuri tradition, offers a unique twist to the festival. Women wield lathis, or cane sticks, playfully striking men while they defend with shields or what they call dhal. Men don feminine attire and dance in good humour. This tradition embodies playful banter rather than aggression, adding a distinct charm to the vibrant celebration of colours.
GOA:
The party capital of India celebrates Holi in their unique way. Shigmo, the Goan version of Holi, epitomises the onset of spring with vibrant street dances and folk songs performed by local farmers and fishermen. Tourists eagerly join in the festivities, adding to the atmosphere. Traditional Shigmo Parades across Goa showcase the region’s rich culture, captivating spectators with colourful displays. It’s a celebration where locals and visitors together and revel in the spirit of joy and unity.
WEST BENGAL:
Basanta Utsav, also known as Dol Jatra, transforms the town of Bolpur into a vibrant spectacle of colours and culture. Symbolising the arrival of spring, this Bengali festival captivates with its yellow-clad women where they play Holi with flower petals. Amidst the hues of Holi, echoes of Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry and traditional performances add traditions to the festivities. Bolpur’s Santiniketan remains the prime location to witness the unmatched fervour of the festival of colours.
UTTARAKHAND:
In the towns across the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Kumaoni Holi is celebrated differently. Unlike the colourful spectacles seen in other states, this celebration is more of a musical affair. It marks the onset of the sowing season for the farming community, symbolising hope and renewal. Through traditional songs, dances, and cultural performances, the spirit of Kumaoni Holi embodies the region’s rich heritage and agricultural traditions.