Lathmar Holi
Lathmar Holi is a unique and joyful celebration held in the twin towns of Barsana and Nandgaon. Barsana is known as the town of Radha, and Nandgaon is the town of Krishna. This special festival takes place before the main Holi festival. The first day is celebrated in Barsana, and the second day in Nandgaon.
On Lathmar Holi, women playfully beat men with sticks, and everyone enjoys throwing colors at each other. The streets of Barsana and Nandgaon come alive with music, laughter, and bright colors. People forget their worries and feel like they have traveled back in time to when Lord Krishna and Radha Rani played H
Lathmar Holi 2025 Dates
Barsana – March 14, 2025
Nandgaon – March 15, 2025
The Origin of Lathmar Holi
Lord Krishna loved to play pranks on Radha and her friends, the Gopis. Since Krishna had a dark blue complexion and Radha had a fair complexion, the Gopis would tease him. To respond, Krishna playfully colored Radha’s face and drenched the Gopis in colors. In return, Radha and her friends playfully hit Krishna and his friends with sticks, driving them out of Barsana.
This tradition continues today! Every year, men from Nandgaon, who are considered the ‘sons-in-law’ of Barsana, visit Barsana. The women greet them with sticks and colors, just like Radha and her friends did to Krishna’s group. The men try to reach Radha’s temple while dodging the playful hits from the women.
The fun doesn’t stop there! The next day, the roles reverse. The men of Barsana go to Nandgaon, where the women of Nandgaon welcome them with their own sticks and colors.
Lathmar Holi is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings history, culture, and fun together. There is singing, dancing, and a joyful atmosphere everywhere. If you ever get a chance, you should visit Barsana and Nandgaon to witness this incredible festival and become part of the tradition!