Barsana, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, is world-famous for its extraordinary Holi celebration—Lathmar Holi. Unlike the usual festival of colours, this tradition sees women playfully beating men with sticks (lathis) in a lighthearted yet spirited manner. This vibrant and unique ritual has intrigued visitors from across the globe, eager to witness this age-old tradition firsthand.
The Braj Holi Festival’s Spirit
In Barsana, Holi is more than just a celebration; it’s a very religious and culturally significant event. This Holi is celebrated in the Braj region, which includes Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Nandgaon. It is well-known for its vivacity and festive traditions. The Hindu calendar states that the full moon night of Phalgun month is when Holika Dahan occurs, and the next day is a spectacular celebration of colors. But what makes Barsana’s Holi unique is its unique charm.
The Fascination of Lathmar Holi
The highlight of Barsana’s Holi is the Lathmar Holi, where women take the lead in the celebration. According to legend, Lord Krishna and his friends from Nandgaon would visit Barsana, Radha’s village, to play Holi. In response, the women of Barsana would chase them away using sticks, preventing them from hoisting their flag on the Radha Rani temple. This playful tradition continues today, with men from Nandgaon attempting to color the women while the women fend them off with sticks. If caught, the men are humorously dressed in women’s attire and made to dance, adding to the festive cheer.
A Celebration of Music and Togetherness
The festival is incomplete without folk songs and ‘Rasiya’ performances, narrating the playful exchanges between Radha and Krishna. Tourists from India and abroad gather to witness this colorful spectacle, soaking in the energy, music, and cultural richness of Barsana’s Holi.
This age-old tradition symbolizes love, fun, and togetherness, making Lathmar Holi a celebration like no other.
