Holi in Braj 2024: The Holi festival, especially in Braj, is renowned globally for its unique traditions. Unlike elsewhere where it lasts for just a day or two, Holi in Braj spans 40 days starting from Basant Panchami.
Various areas within Braj like Barsana, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Nandgaon host different forms of Holi celebrations. Here, people immerse themselves in the devotion of Radha-Krishna, attracting visitors from both India and abroad.
Known as Hora in Braj, Holi here has its distinctive style compared to the rest of the country. Instead of just using wet or dry colors, Braj residents engage in various forms of Holi, each with its own significance. The most famous ones include Lathmar Holi, Chhadi Maar Holi, Phool Holi, and Laddoo Holi.
If you’re keen on experiencing these unique Holi celebrations in Mathura-Vrindavan and want to know when and where each takes place, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the schedule so you can prepare and enjoy Holi in Braj to the fullest.
Holi in Braj 2024
In 2024, Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, will be celebrated nationwide on March 25th. The festivities typically span two days, starting with Holika Dahan on March 24th and followed by colorful revelries on March 25th. Various unique traditions mark this joyous occasion across India.
Holi in Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, especially in places like Mathura, Vrindavan, Gowardhan, Gokul, Nandagaon, and Barsana, holds special significance as it is associated with Lord Krishna. Among these, the Lathmar Holi in Barsana is particularly renowned worldwide for its traditional fervor and fervent celebrations.
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Holi in Mathura-Vrindavan 2024 Dates
Holi in Braj lasts for 40 days with different festivals happening in temples every day. However, the excitement peaks during the 7 days of Holi celebrations. It all kicks off with Barsana Laddu Holi and Lathmar Holi, leading to more Holi festivities in significant temples. Check the dates of Holi in Braj in the table below:
| Holi in Mathura-Vrindavan 2024 Dates | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Date | Event | Time | Location |
| March 17 | Phag Amantran Utsav, Laddu Holi | Radha Rani Temple, Barsana | |
| March 18 | Lathmar Holi | 4:30 pm | Radha Rani Temple, Barsana |
| March 19 | Lathmar Holi | 4:30 pm | Nandgaon |
| March 20 | Phoolwali Holi | 4:00 pm | Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan |
| March 20 | Special Event | 1:00 pm | Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple |
| March 21 | Chhadi Mar Holi | 12:00 noon | Gokul |
| March 23 | Widow Holi | 12:00 noon | Radha Gopinath Temple, Vrindavan |
| March 24 | Holika Dahan, Phoolo ki Holi | 9:00 am – 1:30 pm | Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan |
| March 25 | Main Holi | Mathura and Vrindavan | |
| March 26 | Huranga Holi | 12:30 pm | Dauji Temple, Baldev |
Significance of Holi in Braj
Holi, a vibrant festival, has its roots in captivating mythological tales that add depth to its origins. One such story revolves around Lord Krishna’s childhood. He expressed concern to his mother about the difference in skin tones between him and Goddess Radha.
In a playful gesture, his mother suggested applying colorful powders to Radha’s skin, giving rise to the joyful tradition of Braj ki Holi. Every year, this tradition is celebrated with Lord Krishna embarking on a journey from Nandgaon to Barsana, where Radha and her friends engage in playful stick fights.
Another intriguing tale involves Prahlad and his father, Hiranyakashyap. Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, faced opposition from his powerful and malevolent father. Hiranyakashyap wanted Prahlad’s loyalty over Vishnu’s.
A devious plan was concocted involving Holika, Hiranyakashyap’s sister, who was immune to fire. She sat in the flames with Prahlad in her lap, intending to harm him. However, Prahlad was protected by divine intervention, and Holika perished in the fire, punished for her misuse of powers.
This led to the tradition of Holika dahan or Holika bonfire, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, marking the start of the festival.
Holi Celebration in Braj
The Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplaces of Lord Krishna, are renowned for their grandeur. While Holi is celebrated across India, these places hold special significance due to their association with Lord Krishna and Radha’s stories.
Here are some top spots in India known for their vibrant Holi celebrations:
Lathmar Holi at Barsana and Nandgaon:
In Barsana, the colorful festivities start a week before Holi, marked by a lively procession from temples to river ghats and the Holi Gate. The Dwarkadheesh Temple in Mathura is a must-visit during this time.
Phoolon wali Holi in Vrindavan:
At Banke Bihar Temple, instead of traditional colors, people use flowers to play Holi. The temple gates open in the evening, and priests shower devotees with colorful blooms.
Holi at Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan:
This celebration isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of life itself. People flock to this beautiful town to play Holi with Lord Krishna at the Banke Bihari Temple, following the Lathmar Holi festivities in Barsana.
These places – Mathura, Vrindavan, and Barsana – offer some of the best Holi experiences in India. Don’t miss the chance to capture the picturesque flower rain and soak in the charming ambiance of these locales.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Vrindavan
Holi in Braj 2024 FAQs
Q.1. What makes Holi in Braj special?
Ans. Holi in Braj lasts for 40 days with various unique traditions, attracting visitors globally due to its association with Lord Krishna and Radha.
Q.2. When does Holi in Braj start?
Ans. Holi in Braj starts from Basant Panchami and spans 40 days, with peak celebrations occurring during the final seven days.
Q.3. What are the famous forms of Holi celebrated in Braj?
Ans. Popular forms of Holi celebrated in Braj include Lathmar Holi, Chhadi Maar Holi, Phool Holi, and Laddoo Holi.
Q.4. What is the significance of Holika Dahan?
Ans. Holika Dahan symbolizes the victory of good over evil, marking the start of the Holi festival. It commemorates the tale of Prahlad and Holika.
Q.5. Where can I experience unique Holi celebrations in Braj?
Ans. You can experience unique Holi celebrations in Braj at various locations such as Mathura, Vrindavan, Gowardhan, Gokul, Nandagaon, and Barsana.
