Not Pushkar or Barsana, Here Are the Offbeat Places to Celebrate Holi in India

As a rainbow of colors floated down my feet, I couldn't help but smile, it’s finally a Happy Holi after two years of pandemic. I can see kids running down the lane, juggling water balloons and gujhia in their hands. The shops are dressed in the colors of Fagun and my IG feed is totally flooded with exuberant pictures of Barsana and Pushkar.

Although, with the commercialization of these destinations, a lot of you might wish to celebrate Holi in an offbeat location. So, with this blog, I am taking you to the alternative places of India to embrace an echo of grandeur from Himachal to Kerala with their unique ideas of celebrating Holi.

1. Sangla Holi

Being a mountain child, this one is my personal favorite. The villagers adorn themselves in traditional attires and start the festivity by dancing in the courtyard of Badri Vishal temple.

The vigor of the festival can be felt 7-10 days prior. If you admire mythology and rich culture, you should consider Sangla Holi for the parade which entails Ramayana skit, followed by distribution of a local wine called Phasur and a special meat dish.

2. Shigmo

You must have heard of the famous Christmas celebration in Goa but turns out Holi is celebrated with no less fervor. You will witness a vibrant carnival on the lanes of Goa with the inclusion of multi-colored flags, and unique musical instruments like Dhol Tasha and flutes.

Widely known as Shigmo, the festival carnival features colorful boats decorated around interesting mythological themes which reflect the daily life of Goan people.

3. Kumaoni Holi

Baithki Holi or Nirvan ki Holi, Khari Holi, and Mahila Holi(exclusively for women) are the three versions of Holi that last for over a month in the region, starting with Basant Panchmi (occurring in late January or early February).

This region of India not only celebrates the triumph of truth over evil but also the onset of the new agricultural season. You can let loose and drown in the classical rags sung by the locals while enjoying the local delicacies.

4. Manjal Kuli

While people have a common prejudice regarding the lack of celebration of Holi in the South, well, they definitely haven’t been to Kerala yet.

Known as Manjul Kuli, the festival begins in the temples, where locals, especially from the Konkani and Kudumbi communities, visit the temple on the first day and continue with the jubilant celebrations with colors on the second day which contains turmeric.

5. Yawol Shang

You must have attended several Holika Dehens but have you ever witnessed the burning of a hut? Yawol Shang would surprise you in more ways than one.

The five-day-long celebrations of Holi in Manipur kicks off by burning a hut called Yaosang Mei Thaba. It also involves rituals that allow children and girls to seek donations from the residents, followed by performances by local bands in the village temples.

6. Shnatiniketan

Popularly known as Basanta Utsav, this is a double celebration of Holi and the arrival of spring, which could be felt in the bracing air of Shantiniketan. Yellow takes the centre stage among faces smeared in colors to signify Spring.

Relish the cultural performances by students and embrace the warmth of this abode of peace. You can also interact with artists from all over the country who visit here to celebrate the festivity.

7. Holla Mohalla

Holla Mohalla resembles Holi for warriors in appearance, sound, and feel. Celebrated to honor the valor of Sikh warriors, notably those belonging to the 'Nihang Sikhs' sect, this festival takes place a day before Holi.

The festival features a powerful demonstration of martial arts, horseback riding, and poetry recitation.

8. Royal Holi

Local culture when intertwined with royal legacy creates an unbeatable experience, and if you are looking for something similar, to this, head to Udaipur and witness the Mewar Holika Dahan.

The local artisans perform a folk dance called 'Gair,’ followed by a royal procession from Shambhu Niwas Palace and to Manek Chowk which is accompanied by the royal music ensemble.

Happy, Safe, Responsible - my mantra for Holi this year

While abeer and gulal remain common in all these celebrations, it is the cultural rituals that make them stand apart. I will be landing at Himachal soon to enjoy the festival of colors enriched by the Himachali culture.

Tell us where are you gonna be this Holi weekend and about your favorite Holi destinations. I hope you get many canvases this year to smear with pretty colors but remember, asking for consent is really cool! Yes, even on Holi :)

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