Significant of rejuvenating spring, Holi brings back colours and frolic into the lives of people after the cold winter months. Associated with popular mythology and folklore of the country, this is one of the most sought after festivals in the country.
If one were to believe the Vaishnav roots of the occasion, it signifies the Ras Leela of Krishna, one of Hinduism’s principal deities and the 8th avatar of Vishnu, as he played Holi with each of his female friends.
Another myth tells the story of Holika, an evil demon who conspired to burn her nephew Prahlad, a devout follower or Vishnu; in turn she ended up burning in the pyre as the little prince was saved by God.
In this mixture of good versus evil and love and friendship, this festival has become special for people across the country that waits for it throughout the year.
In fact, just so you could cherish the different flavours of Holi, here are 5 places that have its own unique Holi flavour that must definitely fit in your spring bucket list!
Regal Holi in Udaipur Rajasthan
Rajasthan is considered the land of kings and princes by many in this country and their Holi celebration in Udaipur fits this bill, perfectly.
Celebrations include burning a royal pyre to ward off evil on this auspicious day and majestic processions organized by the royal family of historic Mewar. Everything from regal rides like horses and band processions accompany this parade.
Rowdy Holi at Delhi
Prepare to lose yourself in this dilwalon ka sheher with the coveted Holi Moo Festival that organizes a music extravaganza with guest performers from all over the world.
Not to mention the streets and college campuses of the capital city that get flooded with colours with people just plunging into the depths of enjoyment in the festival of colours. If you are in a hurry to get high on thandai and sweets, there’s probably no place better!
Cultural Holi at Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan is a quite haven located in Bolpur, a few hours away from Kolkata. However, during Holi, this town bustles up for all the right reasons as thousands of people from all over the world come here to witness the lively performances of music, dance, and culture organised by Viswabharati University.
Holi celebrations here are very genteel, and played more with powder colours called Abir than colors, pichkaris and the likes. The main highlights are the song and dance shows, however, where people of all ages participate in a celebration of love and universal brotherhood.
Martial Holi at Punjab’s Anandpur Sahib
First started by the 10th Sikh Guru in the early 18th century, Hola Mohalla’s Holi is all about presenting the crowd with a wonderful and inexhaustible display of acrobatics, martial arts, and turban tying ceremonies.
It is a definite treat to watch and a very different experience from what most people expect during this festival.
Krishna’s Holi at Vrindavan
Enjoy the flavours of temple Holi in the midst of divinity at Vrindavan. The place of the deity’s formative adolescent years, here is where we performed his raas with all his female paramours.
Enjoy playing with localites and friends alike, because on this day, everyone should spread love, respectfully!
With so many places to visit this Holi, why not call up a reputed travel agency in India and book your tickets to whichever place you would like to make a visit! Pack your bag and let’s play Holi!
AUDIO VERSION:
Enjoy the Festival of Colours in 5 Different Ways This Spring