Barsana Holi, popularly known as Lathmar Holi, is one of India’s most extraordinary and globally celebrated festivals. Held in the small town of Barsana near Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, this vibrant event transforms the traditional Holi celebration into a dramatic cultural spectacle rooted in mythology, devotion, and playful tradition.
Every year, thousands of devotees, photographers, travelers, and cultural enthusiasts from across India and around the world gather in Barsana to witness this unique form of Holi, where women playfully strike men with sticks (lathis) while men try to shield themselves - reenacting a legendary episode from the life of Lord Krishna and Radha.
In 2026, Barsana Holi will be celebrated with full grandeur over three days, from February 25 to February 27, leading up to the main Holi festival.
Mythological Significance of Lathmar Holi
The origins of Lathmar Holi lie in a beloved legend from Krishna’s youth. According to folklore, Lord Krishna, from nearby Nandgaon, would visit Barsana - the village of Radha - and tease her and her friends. In response, Radha and the gopis would chase Krishna away using sticks.
Today, this playful confrontation is ritualized into Lathmar Holi, symbolizing:
Divine love between Radha and Krishna
Playful equality between men and women
Joy, devotion, and community bonding
Rather than aggression, the event is marked by laughter, music, devotion, and celebration.
Barsana Holi 2026: Complete Schedule
1. Laddu Holi – February 25, 2026
Location: Shriji (Radha Rani) Temple, Barsana
Laddu Holi marks the ceremonial beginning of the Barsana Holi celebrations. Devotees gather at the revered Shriji Temple, where priests throw laddus (traditional sweets) from the temple balcony into the crowd.
Key Highlights:
Massive crowds chanting Radha-Krishna bhajans
Laddus thrown and joyfully collected by devotees
Devotional singing, dancing, and festive energy
Spiritual atmosphere mixed with celebration
This day is less aggressive and more devotional, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
2. Main Lathmar Holi – February 26, 2026
Location: Radha Rani Temple, Rangili Gali, Barsana
Peak Time: Approximately 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
This is the most famous and intense day of Barsana Holi.
Men from Nandgaon arrive in Barsana singing provocative, traditional Holi songs. The women of Barsana respond by playfully hitting them with sticks (lathis), while the men protect themselves using shields.
What Makes This Day Special:
Traditional Holi songs filled with humor and challenge
Intense gulal (colored powder) play
High-energy crowd interactions
Deep cultural symbolism enacted live
The narrow lanes of Rangili Gali turn into a riot of color, music, and movement, creating an unforgettable experience.
3. Nandgaon Lathmar Holi – February 27, 2026
Location: Nandgaon (near Barsana)
On this day, the roles reverse. Men from Barsana travel to Nandgaon, where the women of Nandgaon reenact the same playful ritual.
This reciprocal celebration completes the traditional Holi cycle between Radha’s and Krishna’s villages.
Key Locations During Barsana Holi
Radha Rani (Shriji) Temple – Spiritual heart of the festival
Rangili Gali – Main street where Lathmar Holi unfolds
Barsana Village Lanes – Overflow celebrations with colors, music, and dance
Nandgaon – Venue for the final day’s celebrations
Practical Tips for Visitors
Clothing:
Wear white or light-colored clothes that are old or disposable. Colors are intense and often permanent.Footwear:
Closed shoes with a good grip are recommended due to crowds and slippery color powder.Safety:
Stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to group travel if possible, and follow local guidance.Photography:
Protect cameras and phones with waterproof covers. Expect splashes of color at all times.Timing:
Arrive early in the morning to secure good viewing spots, especially near Rangili Gali.Respect Local Traditions:
Lathmar Holi is playful but deeply cultural. Participation should always be respectful.
Why Barsana Holi Is World-Famous
Barsana Holi stands apart from other Holi celebrations due to:
Its strong mythological roots
Gender role reversal symbolism
Live enactment of ancient traditions
A rare blend of devotion and playful chaos
It is not just a festival but a living cultural performance that has survived for centuries.
Barsana Holi 2026, with Laddu Holi on February 25, the main Lathmar Holi on February 26, and Nandgaon Holi on February 27, promises an unforgettable journey into India’s spiritual and cultural heartland.
Whether you are a devotee, traveler, photographer, or cultural enthusiast, witnessing Barsana Holi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience - a celebration where mythology, color, music, and devotion collide in the most joyous way imaginable.