1. Shimga Or Rang Panchami – Maharashtra
In Western India, notably in Maharashtra, Holi is affectionately referred to as Rang Panchami or Shimga. Festivities encompass the traditional Holika Dahan, where a firewood pyre is lit the night before the main celebrations commence. The subsequent day, known as Rang Panchami, witnesses people joyously partaking in Holi with an array of wet and dry colors along with water. These jubilant festivities often extend over a week in this region.
2. Royal Holi – Rajasthan
Heading north to Udaipur, Rajasthan, residents uphold the age-old tradition of Holika Dahan, albeit with their own unique flair. Renowned for their grandeur, these celebrations are orchestrated by the esteemed Mewar royal family of Udaipur. A splendid procession, featuring adorned horses and the royal band, is a highlight of the festivities. Subsequently, the customary bonfire is ignited, culminating in the burning of an effigy of Holika.
3. Hola Mohalla – Punjab
Venturing farther north to Sadda Punjab, an intriguing revelation emerges. Here, Holi takes on a unique identity as Holla Mohalla. Celebrated a day after Holi, this occasion serves as a tribute to the valor of Sikh Warriors. Particularly associated with the Nihang Sikhs, the festivities feature elaborate demonstrations of traditional martial arts, followed by spirited music and dancing.
4. Kahila Holi Aka Khadi Holi Aka Baithaki Holi – Uttarakhand
Arriving at our final stop in North India, Uttarakhand, we uncover a variety of names for Holi unique to this region. Baithaki Holi, Mahila Holi, and Khadi Holi are among the commonly used terms for the festival here. The festivities involve locals adorning traditional attire and engaging in lively singing and dancing to folk tunes throughout the city. This communal gathering, known as a Toli, sees residents joyfully smearing colors on each other’s faces, accompanied by continuous dancing and singing. In contrast to other regions of India, music and dance play a pivotal role in the Holi celebrations of Uttarakhand.
5. Lathmar Holi – Uttar Pradesh, One Of The Popular Holi Celebrations In India
Our journey now takes us to Uttar Pradesh, the largest state in India, renowned for hosting some of the most captivating Holi celebrations in the country. Known locally as Lathmar Holi in the Bhojpuri dialect, the festivities here take on a distinctive approach. Women wield lathis, or canes, playfully striking men and boys throughout the celebrations. In response, men arm themselves with dhals, or shields, for protection. Those unfortunate enough to be caught by the women are good-naturedly made to don female attire and dance in the streets. This lighthearted tradition, prevalent across Uttar Pradesh, traces its roots back to Hindu mythology. Legend has it that Lord Krishna, attempting to playfully tease Radha and partake in Holi festivities in her village of Barsana, was met with the wrath of local women who chased him away with lathis.
6. Phaguwa – Bihar
Heading eastward to Bihar, where Holi is referred to as Phaguwa in the local Bhojpuri dialect, we find that Holika Dahan holds significant importance, much like in other Indian states. The observance of Holika Dahan follows similar customs to those in other regions. Subsequently, the day of Holi sees festivities filled with vibrant wet and dry colors, accompanied by traditional music and folk songs resonating throughout the day.
7. Yaosang – Manipur
Moving on to the Northeastern jewel, Manipur! Holi is observed here across six extensive days, known locally as Yaosang. The celebrations amalgamate indigenous Northeastern customs with Hindi traditions. Alongside the customary Holi revelry with both dry and wet colors, the highlight of Manipur’s Holi is the Thabal Chongba, a traditional Manipuri folk dance performed during the festivities.
8. Dol Jatra Aka Basant Utsav – West Bengal
Continuing our exploration of diverse Indian states, our next destination is the land of rasgulla, West Bengal! Here, Holi is celebrated as Basant Utsav or Dol Jatra. Basant signifies the advent of spring in Bengali, while Utsav translates to festival. Women predominantly adorn yellow attire, symbolizing prosperity. For the best view of the festivities, head to Shanti Niketan in the serene locale of Bolpur, the quintessential epicenter of Bengali culture. The Holi celebrations here are unparalleled, featuring a plethora of colors and enriching cultural activities such as recitations of Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry and traditional song and dance performances.
The day following Holi is commemorated as Dol Jatra. On this occasion, a grand procession of Lord Krishna traverses the streets of Bengal amidst singing and dancing enthusiasts. This vibrant spectacle often includes the traditional smearing of colors on the faces of friends, family, and even strangers partaking in the celebrations!
9. Dola – Odisha
Ranked ninth among the varied Holi celebrations in India is Dola, observed in the northern state of Odisha. While the Holi festivities here bear resemblance to those in West Bengal, the distinguishing feature lies in the reverence to Lord Jagannath, also known as Dolagovinda. In addition to the customary application of wet and dry colors, the highlight includes grand processions featuring Lord Jagannath, traversing through various cities and towns across the region.
10. Ukuli Aka Manjal Kuli – Kerala
Descending to “God’s Own Country,” Kerala, we encounter its distinctive rendition of Holi known as Manjal Kuli, alternatively referred to as Ukuli. Celebrated traditionally by the Kudumbi and Konkani communities of Kerala, this festival boasts unique festivities not to be overlooked! Unlike the customs observed in many other Indian states, turmeric, or Manjal Kuli, takes center stage here as the primary color used during the celebrations.
11. Shigmo – Goa
Wrapping up our journey in Goa, renowned as the party capital of India. Shigmo, the indigenous equivalent of Holi in Goa, unfolds as an exuberant celebration heralding the arrival of spring. Local farmers grace the streets with spirited dances and traditional folk songs. True to the spirit of Goa’s festivities, tourists enthusiastically join in the Shigmo revelry. Moreover, various parts of the state host captivating traditional Shigmo Parades, offering a visually captivating spectacle for all.