Celebrated in the twin towns of Barsana and Nandgaon in Uttar Pradesh, Lathmar Holi is among the most distinctive and culturally significant pre-Holi traditions in India.
Observed about a week before the main Holi festival in the Braj region – associated with the childhood of Lord Krishna – the ritual symbolically re-enacts a popular legend from Hindu mythology.
According to tradition, Krishna would visit Radha’s village of Barsana to tease her and her friends. In response, the women would chase him away with sticks.
Today, this playful exchange is recreated as women of Barsana greet men from Krishna’s village, Nandgaon, by mock-beating them with bamboo sticks, while the men defend themselves with shields.
Beyond its theatrical appeal, Lathmar Holi represents divine love, playful gender-role reversal, and the deep-rooted cultural traditions of Braj.
It marks the beginning of Holi festivities, building spiritual and communal anticipation before the nationwide celebration of colours on March 4.
