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Published Mar 22, 2024

India’s Holi traditions: From Punjab’s Hola Mohalla to Kerala’s Manjal Kuli

By Vivek Dubey

Discover the unique Holi traditions across India, from Punjab’s Hola Mohalla to Kerala’s Manjal Kuli. Each region adds its own flavour to this colourful festival.

Hola Mohalla

In Punjab’s Anandpur Sahib, Hola Mohalla is a three-day fair showcasing the Sikh community’s physical prowess and poetic talent.

Mewar Holika Dahan

Udaipur’s Holi starts with Mewar Holika Dahan at City Palace, followed by a vibrant rally of camels, elephants, and horses.

Basant Utsav

Basant Utsav, or ‘celebration of spring’, at Shantiniketan, West Bengal, mirrors Holi but is celebrated with unique grace.

Rangpanchami

Rangpanchami, known as Shimga in Maharashtra, is a festival of dance and song celebrated by the fishing community.

Lathmar Holi

Lathmar Holi in Uttar Pradesh sees women chasing men with sticks in a playful tradition a week before Holi.

Khadi Holi

Khadi Holi in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region involves locals in traditional attire singing and dancing around the city.

Manjal Kuli

Manjal Kuli, Kerala’s unique Holi celebration, involves playing with water and turmeric among the Kudumbi and Konkani communities.