Barsana Lathmar Holi 2026: The world-famous Lathmar Holi is being celebrated today in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh. Barsana is considered sacred as the birthplace of Goddess Radha, and this unique Holi tradition is deeply connected with the divine love story of Radha and Lord Krishna.
Every year, huriyars (male participants) from Nandgaon, the childhood home of Lord Krishna, travel nearly 8 km to Barsana to celebrate Holi. They walk through narrow lanes and colorful streets for about 3 km, where women playfully hit them with sticks (lathis), while men protect themselves with shields and turbans.
This spectacular festival has become a global attraction, with thousands of domestic and international tourists visiting Mathura–Vrindavan to witness the vibrant celebration.
Why Is Lathmar Holi Celebrated? History and Tradition
The tradition of Lathmar Holi dates back to the Dwapar Yuga (the era of Lord Krishna). According to folklore, Krishna and his friends used to tease Radha and the gopis in Barsana, and in response, the women chased them away with sticks. Over time, this playful ritual turned into a cultural festival symbolizing love, joy, and devotion.
Today, Barsana’s women continue this tradition with the same enthusiasm, while men come prepared with wooden and leather shields to protect themselves.
Women Sing Traditional Holi Songs and Folk Rasiyas
During the festival, women sing traditional Braj folk songs and rasiyas, celebrating the divine love of Radha and Krishna. The entire town resonates with devotional music, laughter, and the vibrant colors of abir and gulal.
Grand Welcome with Thandai and Sweets
The huriyars arriving from Nandgaon are welcomed like guests visiting their in-laws’ home. Locals offer them thandai and traditional sweets before inviting them to play Holi. This warm hospitality is an integral part of the festival.
Rituals at Peeli Pokhar and Radha Rani Temple
The huriyars first reach Peeli Pokhar in Barsana, where they hoist a sacred flag representing Lord Krishna. After tying their turbans and wearing traditional attire, they visit the Radha Rani Temple for prayers and then proceed to the colorful lanes where Lathmar Holi is played.
Unique Traditions: Desi Ghee Invitation and Floral Colors
A special invitation is sent from Barsana women to Nandgaon men to participate in Lathmar Holi. Preparations include natural colors made from tesu and palash flowers. It is also believed that desi ghee is sent from Nandgaon to Barsana women to give them strength to playfully hit the men with sticks.
If Men Are Caught, They Must Dance in Women’s Attire
One of the most entertaining traditions is that if a man is caught during Lathmar Holi, women make him wear female attire and dance while singing rasiyas. This ritual symbolizes joy, equality, and playful love rather than conflict.
Nandgaon’s Counter Holi on February 26
On February 26, Nandgaon will host the “Counter Holi,” where women from Nandgaon celebrate in a similar style, continuing the festive spirit across the Braj region.
A Festival of Love, Culture, and Tourism
Lathmar Holi is not just a festival—it is a cultural heritage event that showcases the traditions of Braj Bhoomi. It attracts pilgrims, photographers, vloggers, and tourists from across the world, making it one of India’s most unique Holi celebrations.