Holi in North India is much more than just throwing colours. In many sacred towns, it becomes a heartfelt expression of Krishna bhakti, temple traditions, and centuries-old rituals. Especially in the Braj region, the festival transforms streets and temples into spaces filled with devotion, music, and spiritual joy.
The festival also coincides with Gaura Purnima in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, marking the appearance of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who spread the path of sankirtan, or collective chanting. Because of this, Holi in these places is filled with kirtans, bhajans, and devotional gatherings.
1. Barsana – Lathmar Holi at Radha Rani Temple
In Barsana, believed to be the birthplace of Radha Rani, the Radha Rani Temple becomes the heart of the celebrations. Special shringar is performed and gulal is offered to the deity. The famous Lathmar Holi re-enacts Krishna visiting from Nandgaon, where women playfully chase men with sticks as part of the tradition. The temple complex comes alive with samaj gayan, dhol, nagada, Flower Holi, and laddoo celebrations. Chants of “Radhe Radhe” echo as devotees climb the temple steps, making it a deeply spiritual experience.
2. Nandgaon – Holi at Nand Bhavan Temple
In Nandgaon, associated with Krishna’s childhood, the Nand Bhavan Temple hosts emotional and traditional celebrations. The deity is dressed in festive attire and offered colours. People from Barsana visit to continue the playful custom. Priests shower gulal and flower petals from balconies while bhajans narrating Krishna’s childhood fill the air. Evening aarti amid clouds of colour creates a powerful devotional moment.
3. Vrindavan – Phoolon Ki Holi at Banke Bihari Temple
Vrindavan sets the tone for Holi in the entire Braj region. At the Banke Bihari Temple, Phoolon Ki Holi begins with priests showering flower petals on devotees. Continuous kirtans, mridanga beats, and Braj Holi songs celebrate Radha and Krishna’s playful leelas. Outside, Ras Leela performances and devotional processions extend the celebrations into the streets.
4. Delhi – Grand Celebrations at ISKCON Dwarka
ISKCON Dwarka in Delhi, dedicated to Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai, Sri Sri Rukmini Dwarkadhish, and Sri Sri Jagannath Baldev Subhadra Maharani, hosts a two-day celebration on March 3 and 4. Gaura Purnima is marked with katha, abhishek, kirtan mela, and Chhappan Bhog. The next day features Phoolon Ki Holi, Lathmar Holi, and Matki Phod in a well-managed pandal, along with live kirtan by Gaur Mani Mataji.
5. Jaipur – Royal Holi at Govind Dev Ji Temple
At the Govind Dev Ji Temple inside Jaipur’s City Palace, the festival of Holi is celebrated with royal grandeur. The deity receives special Rajbhog and flower Holi is played in an organised and devotional manner. Classical bhajans accompany the celebrations, ending with a serene evening aarti that blends royal heritage with deep devotion.
Happy Holi in advance to all the readers!
