Holi celebration of Mathura and Vrindravan - Incredible India

Celebration of Holi festival in Mathura and Vrindavan 

Legendary Holi celebrations draw tourists from all over the world to Mathura and Vrindavan in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The specifics of Holi celebrations in these two cities are as follows:

1. Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon

The celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan begin with the unique tradition of Lathmar Holi, which takes place in the neighboring towns of Barsana and Nandgaon. In Barsana, women from the village playfully hit men from Nandgaon with sticks and the men try to defend themselves. The next day, the scene turns to Nandgaon, and men from Nandgaon visit Barsana to playfully comb the women.

• The Legend of Radha and Krishna:

The tradition of Lathmar Holi is closely related to the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Radha, who are believed to have spent their childhood in the villages of Barsana and Nandgaon respectively. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna, known for his mischievous nature, would visit Barsana to entertain Radha and her friends during the Holi festival.

• Radha's Revenge:

In response to Krishna's pranks, the women of Barsana, led by Radha, playfully hit Krishna and his friends with sticks or "lathis". Legend has it that Radha, armed with a staff, flees Krishna in fear. This playful interaction between Radha and Krishna led to the tradition of Lathmar Holi.

• Origin of tradition:

Over time, the Lathmar Holi tradition evolved into a grand festival where women from Barsana play with men from Nandgaon with sticks, symbolizing Radha's revenge against Krishna's teasing. On the other hand, men try to protect themselves with shields or daals, which increases the enthusiasm and friendship of the two villages.

2. Rangeeli Holi in Vrindavan

Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is famous for its magnificent Holi celebrations. The festivities here last for several days and are characterized by parades, music, and lively dances. Devotees and visitors from all over India and abroad come to experience Rangeeli Holi, where people dazzle each other with colors and dance to traditional folk songs and bhajans dedicated to Lord Krishna.

• Radha-Krishna Leela:

The Rangeeli Holi tradition is inspired by the divine love and playful antics of Radha and Krishna. Legend has it that Krishna, who is known for his love of mischief, showered Radha and her friends with fun colors, igniting joyous celebrations of love and companionship.

• Spiritual Meaning:

Rangeeli Holi is celebrated as a joyous expression of devotion and love for Radha and Krishna. Devotees and visitors from all over India and abroad congregate in Vrindavan to soak in the festive atmosphere and seek the blessings of Radha-Krishna during this auspicious season.

• Cultural tradition:

Over time, the tradition of celebrating Holi in Vrindavan has evolved into a grand cultural extravaganza known as Rangeeli Holi. It is characterized by lively processions, music, dance, and a fun splash of colours, reflecting the excitement and joy of the festival.

3. Phoolon Wali Holi at Banke Bihari Temple

The Phoolon Wali Holi (Holi with flowers) at the well-known Banke Bihari Temple is one of the highlights of Holi in Vrindavan. Priests and followers shower each other with colourful flower petals during this unusual festival, producing a captivating sight of colours and aromas.

• Origin:

Phoolon Wali Holi is rooted in the rich cultural and religious traditions of Vrindavan, the sacred land associated with the divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha. The tradition of celebrating Holi with flowers is believed to have originated from the antics of Krishna and the gopis (cowherd girls) during their stay in Vrindavan.

• Legend of Radha and Krishna:

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna, known for his mischievous nature, would shower Radha and the gopis with colorful flower petals during the Holi festival. This act of love and compassion inspired the Phoolon Wali Holi festival in Vrindavan.

• Spiritual Meaning:

Phoolon Wali Holi has great spiritual significance for its devotees, symbolizing the divine love and friendship shared between Radha and Krishna. It is celebrated as an expression of joyful devotion and devotion to the divine spouse, as devotees seek divine blessings and grace during this auspicious time.

4. Holika Dahan

As in other parts of India, Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan begin with the Holika Dahan ritual, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Large bonfires are lit at night, and people gather to perform prayers and rituals, followed by singing and dancing. 

• The Legend of Prahlad and Hiranyakashipu:

Holika Dahan has its roots in Hindu mythology and is associated with the legends of Prahlad and Hiranyakashipu. According to the Hindu scriptures, Hiranyakashipu was a powerful demon king who received the help of Lord Brahma, which gave him immunity from the death of people, animals, or weapons. Hiranyakashipu was driven by his infidelity, became a tyrant, and forbade the worship of any god but himself.

• Prahlad's dedication to Lord Vishnu:

Despite his father's orders, Prahlad son of Hiranyakashipu remained a staunch follower of Lord Vishnu. This enraged Hiranyakashipu, who tortured Prahlad in various ways to scare him away from his deity. However, Prahlad's faith in Lord Vishnu remained steadfast.

• Holika Award:

The gods also blessed Hiranyakashipu's sister Holika, giving her immunity from fire. To eliminate Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu conspired with Holika to kill him by tricking him into sitting on a pyre unharmed by the fire.

• Death of Holika:

When the pyre was lit, Holika sat with Prahlad on her lap, trusting that the fire would not harm her. However, due to divine intervention, Prahlad emerged from the fire unscathed, but despite her blessings, Holika was thrown into the fire and perished.

5. Bhaang and Traditional Sweets

Bhaang, a traditional drink made from cannabis leaves, is an integral part of Holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan. It is served in various forms, including thandai and pakoras, adding to the festive spirit. Traditional sweets like gujiya, malpua, and peda are also enjoyed during the celebrations.

"May your life be as vibrant and colorful as the festival of Holi." 😊