Lath Maar Holi of Barsana

As vibrant as India is, so are its festivals. The festival of colors and love, Holi is one of the most interesting festivals in the country. The way it is celebrated in different parts of India is quite remarkable too. One of the best places that would definitely fascinate you by the way Holi is celebrated there, is Barsana. To witness the “Lath Maar Holi” would be a very delightful and overwhelming experience for anyone interested in exploring Indian culture. Lath Maar Holi takes place days before the actual Holi in the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon. Barsana is a town near Mathura city of Uttar Pradesh.

History Behind Lath Maar Holi

Barsana is the birthplace of Lord Krishna’s lover, Radha.  According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Krishna used to visit his beloved Radha’s village, Barsana on this day to playfully tease Radha and other Gopis (girls) of the town. In return to this, the girls of Barsana used to chase him away. Following this belief, even today, the men from Nandgaon visit Barsana every year to play Lath Maar Holi. Clear from its name, “Lath Maar Holi” is Holi in which people use Lathis or sticks. You can witness the delightful and amusing scene when the men are greeted by sticks by the women in Barsana. Trying to protect themselves from the continuous frolic attack by the sticks from the women, the beauty of this occasion is marvelous. 

Preparations of Lath Maar Holi?

The preparation for this festival would start a month before. The first day of Lath Maar Holi would start with a ceremony at the Radha Rani temple of Barsana. It would then go on for around three days. Each day remarks celebration and different activities according to the themes and rituals. The entire town at this time is filled with colors, love, fun, and celebration. This would make any human totally lost in the beauty of the surrounding. Added by the holy songs to mock each other, the mouth-watering Indian sweets, the very famous “bhang”, and the representation of women’s power in a frolic manner would introduce you to another wonderful side of Indian culture.  

A Cultural Delight

A profound experience to connect with the traditions, the stories of the past, and exploring more about the globally accepted and renowned Indian culture, this divine festival of Holi is more than just a photographer’s delight and tourists’ attraction.  How playfully and in a friendly way this occasion depicts the message of equality is surreal. Moreover, the vibes of these sacred towns where God himself resided and lived a life just like a human is so captivating. Thus, if you are one of those who live for experiences, the memories of which last for a lifetime, then witnessing the “Lath Maar Holi of Barsana” would be one such experience for you. So, now you know where to go to nourish your appetite for joy in the month of March. Yes, it’s Barsana.