Holi, the festival of colors, is a beautiful occasion that brings people together every year. It is celebrated differently in every corner of the country. Some celebrations are more traditional, while others are devotional, musical, or modern party-style. Still, no matter what the form, everyone celebrates Holi for the same reason: to share happiness with everyone. This is why Holi is so special.

Here are some of the most unique and grand Holi celebrations throughout India:

Barsana, Uttar Pradesh

In Barsana, it's called Lathmaar Holi. Here, the women humorously “hit” the men with sticks, and the men try to escape with shields. Sounds strange, right? It could give the impression of being violent or aggressive but the truth is that it’s just a fun custom.

Barsana is the birthplace of Lord Krishna's beloved Radha. The playful prankster, young Lord Krishna, first started this tradition by smearing color on Radha and the Gopis (other young women). Since then, the ladies of Barsana continue to take this sweet revenge every year.

On the day of Holi, men come to play but are greeted with sticks. There are some who even put on women’s clothing and dance in the streets! Because of this, the whole event is full of joy and excitement, which makes it the most unique Holi in India.

Mathura & Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

In Vrindavan, Holi is celebrated in a calm and beautiful way. Here, people use flowers instead of colors. This custom is referred to as “Phoolon ki Holi” (Holi of Flowers). In the temples, flowers are showered on devotees, recreating the beautiful moments of Radha and Krishna.

The whole atmosphere is peaceful, filled with the fragrance of fresh blossoms, sweets, devotional music, and a light touch of gulal (colored powder). This makes Vrindavan’s Holi look serene and beautiful.

Anandpur Sahib, Punjab

In Punjab, Holi is celebrated as Hola Mohalla. It is a three-day Sikh festival. It is considered a heroic form of the festival. Here, the Nihang Sikhs, in their traditional clothing, perform horsemanship, sword fighting, archery, juggling, and more.

The beats of drums enliven the atmosphere and thrill the people. This festival is a celebration of courage, tradition, and culture, where people display their bravery along with the colors of Holi.

Shantiniketan, West Bengal

In Bengal, Holi is celebrated as Dol Yatra or Dol Purnima. Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore introduced it as “Basant Utsav” or “Spring Festival” at Visva-Bharati, Shantiniketan.

People usually decorate the idols of Krishna and Radha, wander the streets, sing songs, dance, and apply colors on each other. During the festival, people often wear saffron-colored clothes, adding to the vibrant and joyous atmosphere.

Ajmer, Rajasthan

In Ajmer, there’s Gair Holi. People wear traditional clothes and dance and sing to the beats of drums. At this time, people also enjoy thandai and bhang. Bhang is a mildly intoxicating drink, which makes the celebrations more fun.

Before Holi, there are royal parades, processions of horses and elephants, and colorful celebrations. Here, it is not just a festival of playing with colors, but a showcase of culture and tradition.

Sangla, Himachal Pradesh

Holi, also known as ‘Faguli’ in Sangla, is a very traditional and warm celebration. Here, locals and travelers together welcome spring, local deities are worshipped, short performances from the Ramayana are presented, and the entire village is in a completely festive mood with folk music and dance. This Holi is very simple, pure, and cozy against the peaceful backdrop of mountains and valleys.

Delhi

Holi in Delhi is on a completely different level. The whole city literally buzzes with colors, music, and excitement. Here, you will get the simple, earthy Holi in the old gallis (streets) as well as full-on party vibes with big crowds. You’ll find everything, from traditional rituals to DJs, dance, and crazy Holi fests. Delhi offers a place for every kind of celebration.

And of course, no festival is complete without sweets! Gujiya adds a special flavor to Holi. Every year, my mother and I make them together at our home. It’s our own way of honoring Holi.

Choti Holi (Holika Dahan)

Holika Dahan is celebrated a day before Holi, also called Chhoti Holi, kind of a mini-Holi. On this day people do bonfires, friends and family gather together, and good wishes are exchanged around the fire with prayers.

This entire ritual signifies that good will always win over evil through truthfulness and devotion. Therefore, Holika Dahan is the preparation to welcome the colors of Holi with good vibes.

Holi Safety Tips:

• Apply some oil on your skin and hair before Holi. This will help remove the color easily.

• Try to use organic or natural colors.

• If any color goes into your eyes, wash them immediately with water.

• Wear old clothes, so that the new clothes are not spoiled.

• Make sure you're not allergic by applying some colour, to confirm there is no skin reaction to the color.

• If you are allergic, try to play Flower Holi or with natural colours.

• Keep your phone and wallet safe with you.

• It’s safer and more fun to celebrate the festival with your friends or a group.