9 Unique Ways India Celebrates Holi

From Lathmar Holi in UP to Yaoshang in Manipur, explore diverse traditions across India that add colour, culture, and joy to the vibrant festival of Holi.

Lathmar Holi

Inspired by Hindu mythology, Barsana’s women playfully hit Nandgaon’s men with sticks as they try to dodge the blows, celebrating Holi with fun and tradition.

Huranga Holi

At Dauji Temple near Mathura, men and women take part in a lively, colour-filled wrestling match during the Huranga Holi.

Phoolon Wali Holi

At the Banke Bihari Temple, flowers are thrown in the air while devotional songs play, creating a short but beautiful celebration.

Rang Panchami

In Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the real colour play happens five days after Holika Dahan, on Rang Panchami.

Shigmo

Goa’s Shigmo festival mixes color play with folk dances, street parades, and grand floats.

Dhol Jatra

In West Bengal and Odisha, Dol Jatra honours Krishna and Radha with colours, grand processions, drum beats, and devotional songs.

Manjal Kuli

In Kerala, Manjal Kuli gives Holi a tropical twist as people splash turmeric-infused water on each other.

Yaoshang

In Manipur, Holi blends with Yaoshang, a six-day festival featuring a bonfire, colour play, folk performances, and sports events.

Kumaoni Holi

Kumaoni Holi in Uttarakhand skips loud DJs for classical music, community singing, and spiritual gatherings.