Holi, The Festival of Colors, is celebrated in various unique and lively ways all over India. While most people associate Holi with colors, water balloons and dancing, a special type of Holi is celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon, which is called Lathmar Holi, two villages in Uttar Pradesh. This unusual and attractive tradition attracts tourists around the world every year.
We will take you through the history, importance and customs of Lathmar Holi, highlighting why this festival is so unique and it stands out from the rest of the Holi festival:,
What is Lathmar Holi?
Lathmar Holi is a traditional and unique version of the festival of colors celebrated in two villages in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, Barsana and Nandgaon. The name “Lathmar” comes from the word “Latti” (which means stick or sugarcane in Hindi), which refers to the fickle tradition of women, which beats men with sticks during ceremonies. This bizarre and enthusiastic festival takes place a few days before the main Holi festival and has become famous for its unusual customs.
Story behind Lathmar Holi
The origin of Lathmar Holi is associated with Lord Krishna and is associated with his love for Radha. According to the legend, Lord Krishna, who lived in Nandgaon, once used to tease his beloved Radha, who lived in the barnas, applying color on his face. In vengeance, Radha and her friends (gopis) chased her with sticks. Since then, the tradition of Lathmar Holi has been performed as a playful reunion of this mythological event.
Thus, every year, the men of Nandgaon visit Barsana, where the women of the village congratulate him with sticks. Men with fickle spirit, try to defend themselves with shields because women follow them, symbolizes fickle teasing between Lord Krishna and Radha.
How Lathmar Holi is celebrated
Lathmar Holi usually occurs two days before the main Holi festival. The festival takes place in two phases: Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon.
1. Lathmar Holi (Women’s Festival) in Barsana
On the first day of Lathmar Holi, the men of Nandgaon go to Barsana to play Holi with the women of the village. Women armed with sticks (Lathis), with these sticks, beat them lightly and friendly and congratulate the men. Men protect themselves with a shield, and the whole event is full of laughter, happiness and enthusiasm. The purpose is not to harm anyone, but to maintain the fickle spirit of Lord Krishna and Radha.
2. Lathmar Holi (Men’s Festival) in Nandgaon
The second day of the festival is held in Nandgaon. Here, the women of Barsana meet the men of Nandgaon and, once again, men try to defend themselves from women’s playful attacks. The festive continues with the exchange of colors, singing and dance.
3. Color games and dances
In both Barsana and Nandgaon, the wind is filled with vibrant colors of Holi because people throw gulal (colored powder) at each other. Traditional songs are sung, and dances are performed in an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm. The exchange of fickle beating and colors is a symbol of eternal love between Lord Krishna and Radha.
4. Cultural performance
Lathmar Holi is not only about physical activities, but also for cultural performance. Local and tourists gather to watch traditional dance performances, and devotional songs dedicated to Radha and Krishna are sung throughout the day.
Importance of Lathmar Holi
Lathmar Holi has a deep cultural and religious significance. It represents fickle and loving relations between Lord Krishna and Radha. The tradition of using Lathi (Lathis) is a major feature of Krishna’s relationship with Radha symbolizing fickle teasing, and its purpose is to re -create the energy and mood of the mythical love story.
It also refers to those who come with two communities – Barsana and Nandgaon – which traditionally represent feminine and masculine energy respectively. The conversation between the two villages is a way to celebrate unity and love through light, friendly competition.
In addition, Lathmar Holi is a way to show reverence for the sacred bond of love that crosses obstacles, it is between lovers, friends or communities. It is an expression of joy, devotion and celebration of life.
When is Lathmar Holi celebrated?
Lathmar Holi usually occurs a few days before the main Holi festival. The exact dates vary according to the Hindu lunar calendar, but usually come in March. The main Holi festival is usually celebrated on the full moon day (Phalguni Purnima) of the month of Falguna, which is in late March. Lathmar Holi, as mentioned earlier, occurs a few days before this date.
How to participate in Lathmar Holi?
If you are planning to experience Lathmar Holi, then here are some suggestions to help you use this unique and colorful festival:
1. Be prepared for the fickle nature of the event:
Be ready to get wet in colors and join fun. The event is light-hearted and joyful, so it is best to go with an open heart and a sense of humor.
2. Dress in old clothes:
Since Lathmar Holi involves wet in colors, it is advisable to wear clothes, which you do not feel worse than being tainted.
3. Respect local traditions:
Remember that the tradition of women who kill women with sticks is part of playful custom and all is in good fun. Respect local culture and traditions while participating.
4. Participate in dance and singing:
The event is full of folk dances, music and celebrations. Will enhance your experience by joining the dance and singing traditional Holi songs.
5. Hold the moments:
Lathmar Holi’s lively colors, energy and enthusiasm are perfect for photography. However, be aware of local customs and seek permission before taking photographs of people.
Lathmar is one of the most unique and joyful versions of the Holi Holi Festival, where the colorful expressions of fickle rivalry, love and happiness come together. With its origin contained in mythology, this festival brings the villages of Barsana and Nandgaon into life in a lively celebration of life, love and devotion. If you are in India during Holi, it should be at the top of your list to experience Lathmar Holi – it is an unforgettable experience that shows the true spirit of the festival in the most vibrant and fun way.
