Holi 2025 Celebrations in Different States of India: A Detailed Guide

Holi, the vibrant festival of colours, is one of the most widely celebrated and joyous occasions in India. Known as the “Festival of Colours,” Holi marks the arrival of spring and is a time for people to come together to celebrate love, joy, and harmony. The festival has a rich cultural and mythological history that brings people of all backgrounds together, regardless of caste, creed, or religion. Holi celebrations in India vary significantly from state to state, with each region adding its unique traditions, rituals, and celebrations. Let’s dive into how Holi is celebrated across different states in India.

1. Rang Panchami – Maharashtra

Maharashtra celebrates Holi as Rang Panchami, typically observed five days after the actual Holi festival. This is a day for fun and merriment, where people throw coloured powders at each other, sing, dance, and indulge in traditional sweets. The streets are filled with dhol beats, and people gather in large groups to celebrate. This day is not just about colour; it also involves the traditional practice of singing songs and playing musical instruments, adding to the festive atmosphere.

In cities like Mumbai and Pune, Rang Panchami is a grand event. Many families and friends gather at public spaces, throw coloured powder (gulal), and have fun playing games together. The processions that wind through the streets are often filled with cheerful people and loud music, making it one of the most vibrant celebrations in Maharashtra.

2. Lathmar Holi & Holi Milan – Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is one of the most famous places for Holi celebrations, and two of the most iconic celebrations are Lathmar Holi and Holi Milan.

• Lathmar Holi: Held in the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon, Lathmar Holi is a unique tradition where women playfully beat men with sticks, while men try to defend themselves. The event is tied to the legend of Lord Krishna and Radha, where Krishna, known for his playful nature, would go to Radha’s village to tease her and her friends. This ritual has become an important part of Holi celebrations in these towns, drawing huge crowds every year.
• Holi Milan: Holi Milan is a social gathering that involves people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate the festival with colours, music, and dance. The day is marked by bonfire rituals, where the burning of Holika (a demoness) symbolizes the victory of good over evil. People light bonfires in the evening, sing devotional songs, and celebrate with family and friends.

In Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Holi is celebrated with similar fervour, where Phoolon Ki Holi (the flower Holi) is also observed. In this event, people throw flowers instead of colours, and it creates a beautiful and vibrant atmosphere.

3. Holla Mohalla – Punjab

Holla Mohalla is a unique version of Holi celebrated in Punjab, specifically by the Sikh community. It takes place a day before the actual Holi festival and is marked by a grand display of martial arts, sword-fighting, horse-riding, and military drills. Holla Mohalla honours the martial spirit of Sikh warriors, particularly the Nihang Sikhs.

This celebration is an amazing mix of bravery, spirituality, and festivity. The celebration begins with a procession where participants display their skills with swords, spears, and horses. The Nihangs, who are known for their distinctive blue attire and weapons, lead the procession, and people from all over join in. The festivities are followed by music, dance, and the throwing of colours, making it one of the most exhilarating ways to celebrate Holi.

4. Shigmo – Goa

Goa, known for its laid-back coastal vibe, celebrates Holi as Shigmo. This celebration is distinct from the traditional Holi festivities and is more of a carnival-like event. It is celebrated with folk songs, dances, and parades that wind through the streets. Shigmo is unique because it combines elements of Hindu culture with Goan traditions. The festival is celebrated twice, once in rural areas as Dhakto Shigmo (small Shigmo) and later in urban areas as Vhadlo Shigmo (big Shigmo).

In Dhakto Shigmo, the celebrations are smaller and more community-oriented, with rural people coming together to sing, dance, and play with colours. Vhadlo Shigmo is more elaborate and includes decorated floats, large parades, and public festivities. Fishermen’s boats are adorned with religious and mythological themes, and the vibrant colours and folk performances add to the celebratory mood.

5. Royal Holi – Udaipur (Rajasthan)

In Udaipur, Rajasthan, Holi is celebrated on a grand and royal scale, a tradition that dates back to the Mewar dynasty. Known as the Royal Holi, the celebrations are nothing short of spectacular. On the eve of Holi, the current custodian of the Mewar royal family lights the bonfire, followed by the ceremonial burning of the effigy of Holika.

The celebrations also include a grand procession featuring decorated elephants, horses, and royal bands. The procession is accompanied by music and dance, making it an extravagant sight. The people of Udaipur participate in this royal celebration by throwing colours, feasting on traditional dishes, and dancing in the streets. The entire city becomes a canvas of vibrant colours, blending royalty with commoners in joyous unison.

6. Kumaoni Holi – Uttarakhand

In Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, Holi is celebrated with a focus on music and spirituality. Known as Kumaoni Holi, this celebration spans several months and involves multiple rituals and events, primarily focusing on music and singing. Unlike the traditional colour-smearing festivals in other parts of India, Kumaoni Holi is more about classical music, devotional songs, and spiritual performances.

Three distinct types of Holi are celebrated here:

• Baithaki Holi: A musical affair where people gather to sing classical ragas in groups, accompanied by traditional instruments like the sitar and tabla.
• Khadi Holi: In this version, men wear traditional attire and participate in folk singing and dancing, with instruments like dhol and hurka.
• Mahila Holi: As the name suggests, this is an exclusive celebration for women, where they perform songs and dances in a traditional manner.

The Cheer, a green Paiya tree branch, is also placed in the middle of a bonfire during the Holika Dahan ceremony. People gather around the fire to sing traditional songs that highlight the triumph of good over evil.

7. Manjal Kuli – Kerala

In the southern state of Kerala, Holi is celebrated as Manjal Kuli. Unlike the traditional use of coloured powders, people in Kerala use turmeric (manjal) powder, which has a rich yellow hue. The festival is centered around traditional rituals, where people gather to celebrate with folk songs and dances.

This celebration is not as large-scale as in other parts of India, but it is unique in its use of turmeric and its ties to local traditions. Manjal Kuli is also known for its connection to agricultural life, as it marks the beginning of the harvest season in the region.

8. Dhuleti – Gujarat

In Gujarat, Holi is celebrated as Dhuleti, which is marked by a grand celebration of colour and tradition. People celebrate Dhuleti by throwing colours, singing folk songs, and dancing. The streets and public spaces come alive with the colours of gulal, and the air is filled with music and laughter.

In Gujarat, people celebrate the victory of good over evil by lighting bonfires, symbolizing the burning of Holika. The festival is also an opportunity to enjoy traditional sweets like doodh-pak and gujiya while bonding with family and friends.

9. Dol Jatra – West Bengal

In West Bengal, Holi is known as Dol Jatra, a festival dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is celebrated with music, dance, and colours. People sing devotional songs in praise of Lord Krishna and throw colours at each other, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere.

One of the most unique aspects of Dol Jatra is the Phool Dole (flower fight) tradition, where people throw flowers at each other instead of colour powder. This gentle form of celebration creates a beautiful scene as colourful flowers fill the air, creating an artistic and peaceful vibe.

10. Meduru Holi – Andhra Pradesh

In Andhra Pradesh, Holi is celebrated as Meduru Holi with much enthusiasm. People participate in processions, sing devotional songs dedicated to Lord Krishna, and throw coloured powders at each other. The festival is an important part of the state’s agricultural culture, marking the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new harvest season.

Like in other parts of India, Holi is also a time to forget old grievances and come together in joy and harmony.

Conclusion: A Unified Celebration of Unity, Love, and Joy

Holi is more than just a festival of colours; it is a celebration of life, love, and unity. Across different states of India, Holi is celebrated in diverse ways, each with its own regional flavour, but all carry the same essence of joy and camaraderie. Whether it’s the Lathmar Holi of Uttar Pradesh, the Shigmo festivities of Goa, or the Royal Holi of Udaipur, the spirit of Holi binds people together in the joyous celebration of life and the triumph of good over evil.

As we celebrate the festival of colours , let us remember that this festival also carries a deeper message – to embrace the arrival of spring with open hearts, forgive past grievances, and spread love and happiness wherever we go. Holi, in all its vibrant forms, continues to be a symbol of togetherness and joy for millions of people around the world.

So, whether you’re planning to visit India or simply want to experience the festival of colours, Holi offers an unforgettable experience that brings people together in the most colourful way possible!

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the true spirit of Holi and experience the grand celebrations first-hand, we offer Holi Tours that take you to the most exciting and colourful destinations across India. Our tours are designed to give you an authentic experience of this vibrant festival, from the thrilling Lathmar Holi of Uttar Pradesh to the Royal Holi in Rajasthan and the lively celebrations of Rang Panchami in Maharashtra.

Join us on a Holi Tour and witness the magic, culture, and traditions that make this festival so special. Let us guide you through the various states of India, where you’ll play with colours, enjoy delicious food, and immerse yourself in the rich local traditions. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a family, or a group of friends, our Holi tours offer something for everyone.

Celebrate Holi 2025 like never before – with unforgettable memories, vibrant colours, and the joy of discovering India’s diverse culture. Let’s make this festival of colors an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

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FAQs

1. When is the best time to experience festivals in India?

The best time to experience India’s festivals is from October to March. This period hosts major celebrations like Diwali, Holi, Navaratri, and more.

2. Are the festivals in India safe for international travellers?

Yes, India’s festivals are safe for international travellers. However, it’s always recommended to travel with a guide or a trusted tour company like Traveda Tour for a more enjoyable and secure experience.

3. How do I book festival tours with Traveda Tour?

You can book festival tours with Traveda Tour by visiting our website or contacting us at +91 9973011696.

4. What should I wear to festivals like Holi and Diwali?

For Holi, wear clothes that you don’t mind getting stained with colour. For Diwali, dress in traditional attire like a saree or kurta to enjoy the cultural experience.

5.Where is Holi in 2025?

Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated across India, with major festivities in North India, including Delhi, Vrindavan, Mathura, and Jaipur. The exact dates of Holi in 2025 will be determined by the lunar calendar, but it generally falls in March.