Yes, Holi is known as the festival of colours. The closest that anyone ever came close to getting hurt was maybe through water balloons, or water canons. But did you know, there is a small village in Uttar Pradesh where women beat up men with sticks as part of Holi celebrations? Don’t believe it yet, read on!
What Is It?
Lathmar Holi is celebrated in the neighbouring towns of Barsana and Nandgaon in Uttar Pradesh, days before the actually Holi celebrations. As part of this, the men enter the village of Nandgaon and the womenfolk then chase them away with lathis (sticks). The men have shields in their hands that they hold over their head to protect themselves from the friendly blows. It isn’t as serious as it sounds. This is their way of embracing the tradition and culture, through these fun rituals.
Why Is It Done?
Barsana is believed to be Radha’s village. According to the folk tales, lord Krishna visited her village and playfully teased her and her friends. To this, the women of the village took offence and chased him away with sticks.
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The people of the village follow this year after year. The celebrations start from the Radha Rani temple, which is the only one in the country that is dedicated to Radha. The men, as they enter the village compound, tease the ladies who pose as gopis with provocative songs as well. And then the ladies retaliate by hitting them with sticks.
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Tourists are often advised to not participate in it, as they are not well equipped to handle the chaos and might end up getting hurt. So we suggest, that you don’t try and explore it on your own. Meet local authorities or local people, and find your way through to witness the Lathmar Holi of Barsana.