Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with zeal throughout India. Beyond the traditional splashing of colors and feasting on gujiyas, Holi takes many unique forms across different regions, each celebrating the festival in its own way. Here’s a look at some of the most distinctive traditions that make Holi celebrations truly special.

1. Lathmar Holi in Barsana

In the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon in Uttar Pradesh, the festival is marked by the iconic Lathmar Holi. This tradition stems from the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. Here, women strike men with sticks, while the men protect themselves with shields. The playful exchange continues with women from Nandgaon striking men from Barsana the next day.

2. Phoolon Ki Holi in Vrindavan

Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, celebrates Holi in a unique way with flowers instead of colors. Devotees shower Lord Krishna with petals at the Banke Bihari Temple, turning the air fragrant with a floral extravaganza, adding a devotional touch to the festivities.

3. Basant Utsav at Shantiniketan

In West Bengal’s Shantiniketan, the festival of Holi is celebrated as Basant Utsav, initiated by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Students dress in yellow garments to welcome the arrival of spring, singing and dancing with natural colors, creating a vibrant cultural spectacle.

4. Dhulandi in Haryana

In rural Haryana, the festival is celebrated as Dhulandi, also known as 'Bhabhi-Devar Ki Holi.' In this fun-filled tradition, married women playfully tease their brothers-in-law (devars) by throwing colors at them, adding an element of jest and affection to the occasion.

5. Hola Mohalla in Punjab

In Punjab, Holi is celebrated as Hola Mohalla, a display of martial skills and valor, originating from Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings. Enthusiastic displays of sword fighting, horse riding, and mock battles take place, especially in Anandpur Sahib, where the Sikh community marks the festival with great fervor.

6. Ger and Dolchi Holi in Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, particularly in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Bikaner, people celebrate Ger and Dolchi Holi. In Ger Holi, participants dress in traditional attire and dance to the beats of drums. In Bikaner, the unique Dolchi Holi sees people playfully pouring water-filled vessels (Dolchi) on each other, all while ensuring no one is harmed in the process.

7. Rang Panchami in Maharashtra

Maharashtra celebrates Rang Panchami five days after the traditional Holika Dahan. In cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik, people gather to celebrate with colors, dancing, and music. It’s a vibrant continuation of the Holi spirit.

8. Atthi Holi and Dandiya in Gujarat

Gujaratis celebrate Holi with Atthi Holi, which includes cleaning their homes and decorating walls with auspicious symbols in preparation for the festival. The evening features Garba and Dandiya dances, a joyous occasion filled with rhythm and cheer, especially in the Kutch region, where the Rabari community celebrates in their traditional style.

9. Bagwal Holi in Uttarakhand

In Uttarakhand, specifically in the Champawat district, Bagwal Holi is a unique and thrilling tradition where people throw soft stones at each other as part of the celebration. Held at the Devi Dhura Temple, this tradition is a way to show devotion to the goddess, adding a touch of excitement to the reverent occasion.