Lathmar Holi 2025 in Barsana and Nandgaon

Lathmar Holi is celebrated 4-5 days prior to the  Holi festivities of other states. However, it is interesting to note how this festival is celebrated in a rather peculiar way in Nandgaon and Barsana towns in Mathura-district of Uttar Pradesh. The towns are located some 42 kms from Mathura and are extremely popular for the celebrations during Holi.

The natives are known for their interesting way of playing Holi with not only colours but also sticks. Lathmar Holi is a Hindi word that literally translates - 'Lath' means stick, 'mar' means beat and togther they mean playing Holi with stick and colours. Thandai (a sweet drink) and Holi go hand in hand, so don't miss out on it!

Lathmar Holi 2025 Dates

Lathmar Holi will take place around on 7 March in Barsana and on 8 March in Nandgaon in 2025.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana

This celebration takes place in the Radha Rani temple in Barsana. It is important to note that it is the only temple dedicated to Radha.

Why is Lathmar Holi Celebrated?

Celebration at the Nandgaon Temple
Celebration at the Nandgaon Temple
Source

According to legend, it is believed that Lord Krishna from Nandgaon visited Radha's (his beloved) town in Barsana during Holi. Lord Krishna who was known to be friendly with all the 'Gopis', applied colour on Radha's face in jest. The friends and the elder females of the town, in turn, took offence and drove him out of Barsana, with bamboo sticks. 

Lathmar Holi thus keeps in tune with this tale and is a recreation of this episode from Lord Krishna's Life. Every year, men from Nandgaon visit the town of Barsana and the women there, drive them out, playing with sticks (i.e., lathi) and colours.

How Is Lathmar Holi Celebrated?

Women in Barsana during Lathmar Holi
Women in Barsana during Lathmar Holi
Source

The Lathmar Holi lasts for a week where men and women indulge themselves in colours, songs, dances and of course the lathis!
The men who come from Nandgaon irk the women by singing annoying songs and provoking them. The women play the part of the Gopis and hurl sticks at the men in tunes of fun and frolic. The unlucky men who get into the hands of the women of Barsana are made to wear female dresses and dance in public. The men come fully guarded wearing protective gears to prevent getting hurt and bruised.

The spray of colours adds to the excitement, and the folks remember Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha by chanting 'Shri Krishna' and 'Shri Radhey' The next day the females of Barsana visit Nandgaon and the festivities continue. There is also consumption of a traditional drink named 'Thandai' which made of milk and some herbs.

Holi At Vrindavan

Holi at Vrindavan
Holi at Vrindavan
Source

The Holy celebrations also continue in Vrindavan in the Banke Bihari Temple for over a week where water and Gulal which is colour made out of flowers is used. The idol of Bihariji dressed in white is brought to the devotees to play Holi. People get drenched in water, colours and dance to lively music.

How To Reach the Lathmar Holi Venues?

The nearest Railway Station is Mathura, located at a distance of 12kms from Nandgaon and the nearest Airport is in Delhi (142kms). There are also state buses and taxis available from the nearby cities.

The festival may seem intimidating but it is definitely not. The celebrations are in good spirits and so is the commemoration of the tales associated with the place. There is vibrance and good cheer all around, that depict the true spirits of Mathura. It is one of the biggest festivals of North India that is closely associated with Indian mythology. One must definitely visit Mathura during the festival of Holi to immerse themselves in the wonderful colours of love and happiness.

This post was published by Holidify.com

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FAQs on Mathura

What is the schedule of Holi in Vrindavan in 2025?

Holi celebrations in Vrindavan will take place over several days, with the main festivities starting in early March. Key events include:
  • March 7, 2025: Faag invitation festival in Nandgaon.
  • March 7, 2025: Laddu Maar Holi at Shri Radharani Temple, Barsana.
  • March 8, 2025: Lathmar Holi in Barsana.

Where is Holi in 2025?

Holi is celebrated across India, but the most iconic celebrations are in Vrindavan, Barsana, and Mathura due to their connection to Lord Krishna and Radha.

How to celebrate Holi in Barsana?

Holi in Barsana is a unique experience, especially the Lathmar Holi, where women playfully hit men with sticks while men shield themselves. Visitors can also enjoy Laddu Maar Holi, where sweets are thrown, and immerse themselves in cultural programs, devotional songs, and gulal (colored powder). It is best to dress in white and prepare for vibrant and lively festivities.

Where is Lathmar Holi played in Rajasthan?

Lathmar Holi is traditionally not played in Rajasthan; it is celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon, Uttar Pradesh, as part of the Braj region's unique Holi traditions.

Why is Barsana Holi famous?

Barsana Holi, especially Lathmar Holi, is famous for its playful reenactment of the legends of Radha and Krishna. It symbolizes the divine love and mischief of Lord Krishna and is celebrated with joy, vibrant colors, music, and traditional rituals, attracting visitors from around the world.

How many days is Holi played in Vrindavan?

Holi in Vrindavan is celebrated over 5-7 days, starting with temple rituals, color play at the Banke Bihari Temple, and cultural performances, culminating in grand celebrations involving vibrant colors, music, and devotion.

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