The 40-day Braj Holi festival, which commemorates the heavenly love of Lord Krishna and Radha, is celebrated in the Braj region of India, which includes Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Nandgaon. It is a lively and culturally rich occasion. With a variety of distinct customs and events that draw devotees and tourists from all over the world, the celebrations in 2025 started on February 3 with Basant Panchami and will end on March 22 with Rang Panchami.
Why Is Braj Holi Celebrated?
With a strong cultural and spiritual foundation in Hindu mythology, Braj Holi is a significant occasion. The event honours the gopis (cowherd girls) of the Braj region as well as the affectionate and playful exchanges between Lord Krishna and Radha. Legend has it that when young Krishna was upset with Radha’s pale skin and his dark complexion, he playfully smeared colours on her face to make her seem like him. The essence of Holi is symbolised by this act, which transcends social conventions and differences to celebrate love, unity, and the joy of life.
Schedule For Braj Holi 2025
“Brij Holi” festival, celebrated for nearly 40 days in the Braj (Mathura and Vrindavan), primarily revolves around the playful love story of Lord Krishna and Radha, where the extended celebration signifies the continuous joy and devotion of their divine love, with each day… pic.twitter.com/4797vmAxXr
— JYOTI सिंह DHILLON🇮🇳 (@NayaBharatHoon) February 2, 2025
The 2025 Braj Holi festival is packed with a series of vibrant events spread across various locations. Although the festival has started already, here is a comprehensive schedule of the key festivities in this month:
7th March (Friday): Phag Aamantran – Laddu Holi is celebrated in the evening at Ladliji Mahal, Barsana.
8th March (Saturday): Lathmar Holi – This unique event involves women playfully hitting men with sticks, recreating the legendary tales of Krishna and the gopis. It is celebrated in Barsana.
9th March (Sunday): Lathmar Holi continues in Nandgaon. Here, men from Krishna’s village come to play Holi with the women of Barsana.
10th March (Monday): Rangbhari Holi and Phoolon ki Holi – In Vrindavan’s Banke Bihari Temple, devotees celebrate with flowers and colours, creating a mesmerising spectacle.
11th March (Tuesday): Holi celebrations at Dwarkadheesh Temple in Gokul.
12th March (Wednesday): Holi at Banke Bihari Temple and Dol celebrations in Vrindavan.
13th March (Thursday): Holika Dahan – Symbolising the victory of good over evil, bonfires are lit in Phalen and across the Braj region.
14th March (Friday): Dhulhadi – Known as Rangon ki Holi, the entire Braj region will be immersed in colours and joy.
15th March (Saturday): Huranga – A lively celebration at Baldev’s Dauji Temple, where participants engage in playful festivities.
16th March (Sunday): Huranga continues in Nandgaon, maintaining the festive spirit.
17th March (Monday): Traditional Huranga at Jao village, showcasing local customs and dances.
18th March (Tuesday): Charakula Dance – A traditional dance performance in Mukharai, adding cultural richness to the celebrations.
19th March (Wednesday): Huranga at Batain, continuing the series of playful events.
20th March (Thursday): Huranga at Gidoh, engaging locals and visitors alike.
21st March (Friday): Rang Panchami – Huranga at Khaira, marking the near conclusion of the festival.
22nd March (Saturday): Final Holi celebrations at Ranganathji Temple in Vrindavan, bringing the 40-day festival to a grand close.
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Braj Holi reflects the region’s rich cultural background and the lasting legacy of Lord Krishna’s stories. Every year, this festival delivers a distinctive experience. Immersion in traditional dance, music, and the festive atmosphere that characterises this festival of hues awaits visitors.
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