Holi is one of the most loved and celebrated festivals in India, and the country has many unique ways of celebrating it based on the state and region. For example, Mathura celebrates Phoolon Wali Holi, Punjab celebrates Hola Mohalla, Bihar celebrates Phagunwa, and so on. One of such unique Holi celebrations is Lathmar Holi in Braj. Yes, you read that right, in this celebration, women playfully hit men with sticks (lath), and it is a community celebration. Sounds fun? Well, you can play it too, right in Mumbai. Yes, Mumbai is celebrating Braj Ki Lathmar Holi, and here’s everything you must know about it.
What Is Braj Ki Lathmar Holi?
Braj Ki Lathmar Holi is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant Holi tradition hailing from Barsana in Uttar Pradesh’s Braj region. It is actually celebrated a few days before the main Holi festival.
Inspired by this story, women of Barsana wear beautiful and colorful traditional attire, take padded lathis, and joyfully run to chase men from Nandgaon. These men shield themselves while singing cheeky folk songs. The men who are caught have to wear saris and dance, turning the festival into a riot of laughter. The organic colors (gulal), and Braj Holi tunes are the essence of this festival.
Braj Ki Holi – ‘Lathmar Wali ‘ Mumbai
Braj Ki Holi – Lathmar Wali Mumbai 2026 is all set to recreate Barsana’s iconic tradition at Vrindavan Garden, Kandivali West. Here, women will playfully chase men with padded sticks just like in Braj. The scene will surely replicate the images of Radha and the Gopis teasing Krishna, in a family-first event. The event will blend spiritual rituals, and live Braj music bringing in a traditional touch that is beyond commercial parties. The best part? The event is completely alcohol and smoke-free.
When: March 4, 2026
Where: Vrindavan Garden, Taj Compound, Trikamdas Rd, near Cinemax Cinema Kandivali, Kandivali, Jethava Nagar, W, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Timing: 11:00 AM onwards
Tickets: INR 799 onwards
What To Expect?
It is a 5-hour spiritually led celebration. It will feature Phoolon Ki Holi or flower showers as well as safe Lathmar play with padded lathis. You can also take part in matki phod, where you can break pots with lathis. Get ready to dance on Puneri dhol beats alongside two live rock bands fusing guitar, tabla, sitar, and soulful vocals tailored for an unforgettable experience.
Savor delicious, traditional Braj cuisine like Mathura peda, Vrindavan snacks, and Kashi specialties at the stalls. The place will also house everything in a temple-inspired setup with Krishna-Radha decor, rangolis, and more. As it is a family-first, traditional event, the colors that will be available here will be completely eco-friendly, dry herbal colors, ensuring skin safety. There are no water guns or chemicals allowed.
How To Reach
By Train
- The most efficient way to reach the Kandivali/Borivali area is via the Western Line.
- Board a fast or slow local train towards Virar/Borivali if coming from the south Mumbai.
- Alight at Kandivali Station or Borivali Station
- Then you can take an auto rickshaw to the venue.
By Metro
- Take Line 2 metro services to reach the Kandivali (West) Metro station
- Walk 20 mins via SV Road or take an auto-rickshaw to Trikamdas Road.
By Bus
- Routes 244, 247, 264, 277 from Andheri/Borivali/Malad halt at Kandivali Rs.
- The venue is just 2 minutes walk away.
Summing Up
So, this year, if you wish to celebrate Holi traditionally or uniquely, make sure you book your passes ASAP for Vrindavan Gardens.
