Holi 2024: How the festival of colours is celebrated in different states of India

These diverse celebrations showcase the rich cultural landscape of India, where Holi is embraced with local customs and regional variations. (Representational Image).

Holi, the vibrant festival of colours, is celebrated in the Hindu month of Phalgun, typically falling between February and March. This year, Holi will be marked on Monday, March 25, in India. The festivities will commence on the evening of Sunday, March 24, with Holika Dahan, a ritual where a bonfire is lit to symbolise the victory of good over evil.

This period is characterised by joy and togetherness as people unite to welcome the arrival of spring and rejoice in the triumph of positive forces.

How is Holi celebrated in different states of India?

Holi is celebrated with various customs and traditions across different states of India, adding regional flavours to the festival. Here are some details on how Holi is celebrated in different states:

1.Uttar Pradesh

Mathura and Vrindavan host lively celebrations on Holi, with traditional songs and dances depicting the playful interactions of Radha and Krishna. In Varanasi, people participate in a grand procession known as 'Gulal Yatra,' where participants throw coloured powders and dance through the streets.

2. West Bengal

West Bengal celebrates ‘Dol Jatra' or 'Dol Purnima' with processions, singing, and dancing. Devotees carry decorated palanquins with idols of Radha and Krishna, and coloured powders are playfully smeared on each other. It also coincides with the birthday of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

3. Punjab

In Punjab, Holi is marked by the tradition of 'Hola Mohalla,' where people display their martial arts skills. It's a time for processions, mock battles, and showcasing physical agility.

4. Haryana

The 'Lathmar Holi' of Nandgaon and Barsana involves women playfully hitting men with sticks, reminiscent of the playful interaction between Radha and Krishna. It's a unique and lively celebration.

5. Bihar

Bihar's Holi celebrations extend over several days, with people singing traditional folk songs known as 'Phagua.' The lighting of the 'Holika' bonfire, locally called 'Holika Dahan,' is a significant part of the celebration.

6. Assam

In Assam, Holi is celebrated as 'Phakuwa' or 'Doul Utsav, which includes vibrant processions, where devotees carry the idol of Lord Krishna and Radha. People play with colours, sing folk songs, and indulge in community feasts.

7. Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Holi is celebrated with a unique custom called 'Rang Panchami’ where people throw colours and water balloons at each other. The festival concludes with the breaking of earthen pots filled with buttermilk, symbolising the playful acts of Lord Krishna.

8. Gujarat

Gujarat celebrates Holi with enthusiasm, featuring traditional dances like the Garba and Dandiya Raas. The festival is marked by vibrant processions and cultural events. People form circles and dance to the traditional beats, creating a lively and colourful spectacle.

9. Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, the celebration of Holi includes traditional folk music like 'Hori' and the lighting of bonfires. The festivities often spill into the streets with camel processions, cultural performances, and an abundance of colours.

While Holi is not as extensively celebrated in South India, the festival has gained popularity over the years. People in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad participate in community events, play with colours, and enjoy cultural programs.

These diverse celebrations showcase the rich cultural landscape of India, where Holi is embraced with local customs and regional variations, making it a truly colourful and inclusive festival.