Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated across India with great fervour. The festival marks the advent of a pleasant spring after the cold winters. There are many places across India known for its unique Holi celebrations but the Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan are special. Lets know about this unique celebrations.
Lathmar Holi at Barsana and Nandgaon
Lathmar Holi is celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon. Men from Nandgaon go to Barsana to tease the women. They in turn beat the men with sticks. These men protect themselves with shields.
Holi at Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
Banke Bihari is the hub of Holi festivities and the celebrations here takes place a day before the main Holi. The temple opens its gates for the public to play Holi with the Lord. The priests throw colours and holy water at the crowd.
Phoolon wali Holi, Vrindavan
The Banke Bihari temple at Vrindavan celebrates Phoolon wali Holi on the ekadashi before Holi. As the name suggests, this Holi is celebrated with flowers unlike the traditional colours. The temple gates are opened around 4 pm and the priests throw flowers at the devotees. Ekadashi before Holi falls on 8th March this year.
Widow's Holi, Vrindavan
For years the widows weren't allowed to participate in celebrations until a few years ago when they broke the tradition and started celebrating the festival of colours. The Holi celebrations by the widows of Vridavan has since then gained popularity.