Holi, the festival of colours, is almost around the corner. This year, it is being celebrated on March 4. The festival brings people together with their loved ones, where they celebrate the occasion by
throwing colours, dancing to music, and enjoying traditional dishes and sweets. While this is the common way to celebrate, there are unique customs and traditions across India that make this festival even more special. One of them is the Lathmar Holi.
On Wednesday, February 25, the vibrant and playful Lathmar Holi began in Uttar Pradesh, marking the start of a week-long celebration leading up to Holi. It is celebrated mainly in the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon, and has deep roots in Indian mythology. Unlike regular Holi celebrations, Lathmar Holi is known for its dramatic reenactment of a playful episode from the lives of Lord Krishna and Radha. Considered one of the most-talked-about events of the year in the country, this special tradition is celebrated with folk songs, dancing, and throwing gulaal (coloured powder) on each other.
What Is Lathmar Holi?
It is a Holi tradition in which women from Barsana playfully chase and hit men from Nandgaon with sticks, known as lathis, with no intent to hurt them. Hence, the name Lathmar. The celebrations begin at the Radha Rani Temple, perched atop a hill in Barsana, where priests perform special shringar and offer gulal at the deity’s lotus feet.
The men, in turn, try to protect themselves using shields as crowds cheer them on. The entire event unfolds amid clouds of gulaal, the beating of drums and lively folk music. As per the tradition, if a man is “caught” during the playful combat, he is made to dress like a woman and dance.
Where Is Lathmar Holi Celebrated?
Lathmar Holi is celebrated over two days in the Braj region. The celebrations began in Barsana, where men from Nandgaon visit Radha’s village to play Holi. The following day, women from Barsana travel to Nandgaon to continue the festivities. This year, Laddu Holi in Barsana was on February 24, followed by Lathmar Holi in Barsana on February 25, and Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon on February 26.
What Is The Significance Behind Celebrating Lathmar Holi?
The tradition of Lathmar Holi is linked to Lord Krishna’s youth. According to popular belief, Krishna and his friends from Nandgaon once visited Barsana to tease Radha and her companions by throwing colours on them. Responding to their mischief, Radha and the gopis chased Krishna and his friends away with sticks.
This playful chapter from Krishna and Radha’s youth is still celebrated to symbolise divine love, playfulness and devotion. The celebration is vibrant yet deeply devotional, making Barsana a once-in-a-lifetime Holi experience rooted in living Braj heritage.
