Welcome to 7 unorthodox places to celebrate Holi post.
Celebrations in Mathura, Vrindavan, and Barsana’s pious cities of over-the-top colour are synonymous with this festival of colours. The unusual ways in which people in various parts of India celebrate this festival of Gulal, Gujiya, and Gulab Jamun are, however, left out of the discussion. Continue reading to learn about seven locations where the festival is celebrated in a way that is distinct from the norm…
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Santiniketan, West Bengal
Santiniketan, a well-known district in Bolpur, West Bengal, observes Holi as the Basanta Utsav, or Spring Festival. Aabeer, made from dry vegetables, is smeared on revellers as part of the celebrations, which are more poetic and musical in nature. People wear bright yellow and orange clothing to celebrate the arrival of spring. This year’s festivities will begin on March 5th, and last through March 16th, 2022. For a Holi celebration that’s out of the ordinary, head to this quaint neighbourhood in Kolkata.
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Punjab’s Anandpur Sahib district
3-day Hola Mohalla or just “Hola” festivities begin on the day after Holi. Sikh New Year marks the beginning of a new year for the Sikhs, and as a celebration, the locals participate in sword fights, wrestling, and other sports. Other ways to honour Guru Gobind Singh’s legacy include nagar kirtan, turban tying, and poetry.
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Mountainous region of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon
More than one aspect of Kumauni Holi sets it apart from the rest. The first reason is that it not only represents the triumph of good over evil, but it also heralds the beginning of the planting season. Secondly, for the residents, it’s a more musical affair when they sing religious and classical raga-based songs. The different types of Holi celebrated here further add to its uniqueness. Baithki Holi, also known as Nirvan ki Holi, Khari Holi, and Mahila Holi, all of which begin on or around Basant Panchmi (around the end of January or the beginning of February), last for over a month in the region. A nokdaar topi is a must-have accessory for any white churidar and pyjama ensemble.
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Goa
Goa, a well-known party destination in India, is an additional unexpected location to celebrate the joyous festival of Holi. A religious holiday known as Shigmo is observed in this region from March 11 to March 15. The streets are filled with people dressed in brightly coloured costumes and playing instruments like flutes and drums. Folks smear gulal on each other and parade through the streets of Goa to celebrate the festival’s final day, also known as ‘Rang Panchami.’ You’ll fall in love with Goa all over again because of the joyful atmosphere.
Rishikesh.
When it comes to this year’s Holi, Delhi is the best place to go because the festival falls right in the midst of the International Yoga Festival (March 1-7). Distinguished spiritual leaders, saints, and devotees from around the world will attend this week-long event, which includes yoga classes, lectures, cultural performances, and aarti. In addition, you can participate in Holi festivities on the banks of the Ganga River, which include music, gulal, river rafting, and scrumptious snacks.
Pushkar
Pushkar is a magical town year-round, but during the festival of colours, the atmosphere is even more mesmerising. In comparison to the aforementioned locations, there won’t be much uniqueness to see here; however, the enthusiasm and fervour with which locals celebrate it for two days in a row will be well worth documenting.
Rajasthan’s city of Udaipur
The city of Udaipur is known for its grandeur, and the Holi celebrations held here are no exception. The festivities begin with the royal Mewar king and his family performing the ‘Holika Dahan’ ritual, after which a magnificent procession of decorated horses, camels, musicians, and dancers with royal band groups proceeds from the royal residence (Shambhu Niwas Palace) to Manek Chowk at the City Palace. A spectacular display of fireworks marks the end of the party. Locals celebrate Holi on the second day with wet and dry colours, water guns, and helium balloons, among other things.
So, what’s your plan for the future? Do tell us what you think in the box below. Everyone, have a safe and happy Holi!
Our list of 7 unorthodox places to celebrate Holi in 2022 ends here.
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