Introduction

Holi, the festival of colours, is one of India's most celebrated festivals, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. While most people associate Holi with splashes of vibrant colours, water balloons, and joyous dancing, different parts of India celebrate it in truly unique and fascinating ways. From sword-wielding warriors in Punjab to musical parades in Goa, Holi takes on many cultural forms across the country. Let’s take a journey through some of India’s most extraordinary Holi celebrations.

1. Lathmar Holi – Barsana & Nandgaon, Uttar Pradesh

Perhaps one of the most famous and playful Holi traditions in India, Lathmar Holi is celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon, the legendary hometowns of Radha and Krishna. Instead of just throwing colours, the festival includes:

✅ Women playfully beating men with sticks (lathis), a tradition that dates back to the mischievous childhood of Krishna
✅ Men from Nandgaon teasing the women of Barsana, only to be chased away with sticks
✅ Traditional songs and bhajans being sung in temples, celebrating Radha-Krishna’s divine love

Best Time to Visit: A week before the main Holi festival

2. Holla Mohalla – Anandpur Sahib, Punjab

In Punjab, Holi takes on a warrior-like spirit with Holla Mohalla, a festival celebrated by Sikhs. This event, started by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is a display of valor, strength, and martial arts rather than colour-throwing. Highlights include:

✅ Mock battles, sword fighting, and horseback stunts
✅ Gatka (Sikh martial arts) demonstrations
✅ Loud drumming and kirtans in the streets
✅ Community feasting (Langar) organized at Gurudwaras

Best Time to Visit: The day after Holi

3. Shigmo Festival – Goa

Holi in Goa is celebrated as Shigmo, a festival of music, dance, and cultural performances. Unlike the mainstream Holi, Shigmo is:

✅ A procession of folk dancers and performers wearing vibrant costumes
✅ A festival deeply rooted in Goa’s farming traditions
✅ Temple rituals and celebrations rather than just colour play

Best Time to Visit: Late March, around Holi

4. Manjal Kuli – Kerala

In Kerala, Holi is known as Manjal Kuli, which is celebrated by Malayali Hindus, especially in the Konkani and Kudumbi communities. Unique features include:

✅ Instead of dry colours, turmeric-infused water is thrown
✅ Temple rituals and folk songs accompany the celebrations
✅ A strong emphasis on community bonding and traditional dances

Best Time to Visit: On the day of Holi

5. Dol Jatra – West Bengal

In West Bengal, Holi coincides with Dol Jatra, which is celebrated in honor of Lord Krishna and Radha. It has a distinct cultural and spiritual essence:

✅ Idols of Krishna and Radha are placed on swings and taken around in processions
✅ Devotees sing devotional songs and apply abir (coloured powder)
✅ Shantiniketan, the university town founded by Rabindranath Tagore, celebrates Basanta Utsav, a graceful and artistic version of Holi with classical music and dance

Best Time to Visit: A day before Holi

6. Phoolon Ki Holi – Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Instead of colours and water, Holi in Vrindavan’s Banke Bihari Temple begins with a mesmerizing shower of flowers. This version of Holi is:

✅ Played with fresh flower petals instead of powder colours
✅ Accompanied by spiritual bhajans and devotional music
✅ One of the most peaceful and divine Holi experiences in India

Best Time to Visit: A few days before Holi

7. Yaosang – Manipur

Manipur’s version of Holi, known as Yaosang, is a six-day-long celebration blending Hindu and Manipuri traditions. Unique aspects include:

✅ Thabal Chongba, a traditional Manipuri dance performed under the full moon
✅ Color play combined with spiritual practices at temples
✅ Street performances, sports events, and fire rituals

Best Time to Visit: The evening of the full moon in March

Conclusion

Holi is far more than just a festival of colours—it is a celebration of heritage, culture, and community bonds. Whether it’s the warrior spirit of Punjab, the graceful Basanta Utsav of Bengal, or the flower-filled Holi of Vrindavan, each version of Holi reflects India’s rich diversity and traditions.

So, if you’re planning to celebrate Holi in a new and exciting way, why not visit one of these unique destinations and experience the festival beyond colours?