We bet you must’ve heard of the tradition of throwing colors at each other during Holi. However, have you heard of a unique Holi tradition where the village women beat men with sticks?
Yes, you heard it right!
The Lathmar Holi is a famous Holi tradition that has continued since ancient times and finds significance even in Hindu mythology.
In fact, the tradition has been featured in the 2017 Hindi film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha too!
What is it and how is it celebrated?
Keep reading to know more!
All That You Need To Know About The Lathmar Holi 2025
Tradition of The Lathmar Holi
The Lathmar Holi tradition, also called Barsane Ki Lathmar Holi (Barsana’s Lathmar Holi) traces its roots to several stories from Lord Krishna’s life.
It is believed that when he was staying in Nandgaon, Krishna and his friends would go to the neighboring town of Barsana to tease Radha and her gopi (milkmaid) friends. They would throw colors and water to trouble them playfully.
As retaliation, the girls would playfully drive Krishna and his friends out of Barsana by chasing them with sticks and staffs (laathis) and even hitting them gently. They would also force the men to parade and dance in women’s clothing.
This unique way of celebrating Holi became well-known among the people and this is how the tradition is believed to have started. Even after centuries, the tradition has survived today and is just as popular as it was earlier.
How Do They Celebrate Lathmar Holi Today?
Just like the stories of Radha and Krishna, Lathmar Holi starts with the men from Nandgaon visiting the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana.
They are fully prepared for the ‘attack’ and carry small makeshift ‘shields’ that are usually just plates and round metal pieces wrapped in thick cloth.
If the men are caught by the women, they charge at them with their sticks in a playful manner. Also, they make the men dress like women and force them to sing and dance for them!
The next day, the men of Barsana go to Nandgaon, where the women there are ready to ‘attack’ the ‘infiltrating’ men.
Streets in both the towns are covered in vibrant colors made from flowers and natural dyes and the atmosphere is nothing short of magical!
This year, the Lathmar Holi 2025 will be celebrated on 8th and 9th March 2025, almost a week prior to the actual Holi celebrations.
Food During Lathmar Holi 2025
Colorful celebrations call for equally delightful treats, and the ones prepared on Holi are some of the most scrumptious treats you’ll ever have.
Towns celebrating Holi are filled with the sweet, mild aroma of freshly fried gujiya (a flaky pastry dessert with dried fruits and dry milk solids called khoya) and refreshing thandai (milk-based drink with spices and nuts and sometimes bhang!).
Apart from these delicacies, you’ll find many other treats like rabdi-jalebi, samosa, and kachauri being served on the occasion of Holi.
How To Reach Barsana?
The closest and the most convenient city to Barsana is Mathura. It is well-connected via both railways and roadways. Many people first halt at Mathura and then make their way to Barsana.
By Air
The Delhi International Airport is the closest international airport to Barsana, about 132 kilometers (km) away. Meanwhile, the Agra Airport is the closest domestic airport (100 km).
From both the airports, you can easily get a cab or a bus to either Mathura (and then Barsana) or directly Barsana.
By Rail
Mathura Junction is the closest railway station (44 km) to Barsana. Many express trains halt at Mathura Junction and you can easily get a rickshaw, bus, or cab to get to Barsana.
By Road
Barsana enjoys good connectivity by road from major cities such as Agra, Delhi, Faridabad, and Gurugram. There are many state-run buses available from Agra and Mathura that will take you to Barsana.
Summing Up
Lathmar Holi is testament to the unique ways we celebrate our festivals. And Barsane Ki Lathmar Holi is just one of the several festivals where you must simply let loose and enjoy the moment. Now, if you too are excited to witness this different kind of Holi, this is your cue to pack your bags to Barsana!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Is Holi Celebrated In Barsana?
Yes, Barsana celebrates Holi with great joy and excitement as it is considered to be the birthplace of Goddess Radha.
Q2. Lathmar Holi Is Celebrated In Which State?
Lathmar Holi is celebrated prominently in Barsana and Nandgaon, two spiritual towns in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
Q3. What Is Special In Barsana?
Barsana is known to be the birthplace of Goddess Radha, Lord Krishna’s eternal lover. The Radha Rani Temple dedicated to her, as well as several other temples dedicated to Radha-Krishna make the town a special place for their devotees.
