01/6Holi 2024: Bizarre Holi traditions across India
Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, heralding the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. While smearing colors and drenching each other with water are common practices, there are several unique traditions that are as bizarre as they are captivating. These unusual customs not only add to the festival’s exuberance but also reflect the diverse cultural fabric of India. From the playful aggression of Lath Maar to the spiritual solemnity of Chita-Bhasma, each tradition is steeped in history and local folklore. In this article, we explore some of the most bizarre Holi traditions that continue to intrigue and fascinate both locals and visitors alike:
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02/6Lath Maar
In Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, Holi is not just about colors but also about asserting one’s presence with sticks. The Lath Maar Holi is a tradition where women, armed with sticks, chase and playfully beat the men, who defend themselves with shields. This tradition is a re-enactment of the playful banter between Lord Krishna and the gopis. It’s a sight of empowerment and fun that turns the tables on traditional gender roles, as the entire town erupts in mock battles, accompanied by songs, dances, and laughter, making it a truly unique spectacle.
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03/6Chita-Bhasma Holi
In the heart of Varanasi, Chita-Bhasma Holi is a profound tradition that transcends the usual festivities. Devotees, including sadhus and Aghoris, gather at Manikarnika Ghat, a place where life and death intersect, to play Holi with the ashes from the cremation pyres. This ritual is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the deity who is believed to reside in Varanasi, the city of salvation. The devotees are followers of Shiva, embracing his aspects as both the destroyer and the rejuvenator. They smear the sacred ashes on their bodies, celebrating the cycle of life and death, and expressing their devotion to Shiva, who is said to visit the cremation grounds during this time to partake in the festivities. This unique celebration presents a ghostly sight as the holy men roam the streets, adding a surreal dimension to the festivities.
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04/6Bhang consumption
Bhang, a paste made from cannabis, is an integral part of Holi celebrations. Consumed in the form of drinks or edibles, it induces a state of euphoria. Despite the general prohibition of cannabis, bhang is legally and socially accepted during Holi, reflecting its deep cultural roots and the leniency of authorities during the festival. The preparation of bhang is an art, with family recipes passed down through generations, and its consumption is a communal affair that adds to the festival’s convivial atmosphere.
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05/6Playing with scorpions
In Saunthana, a village in the Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh, locals engage in a daring tradition of playing with scorpions. The villagers believe that the scorpions, which are caught from the rocky terrain of Bhaisan Devi Tila, do not sting on this auspicious day. They demonstrate their faith by fearlessly placing scorpions on their bodies, showcasing a blend of devotion and thrill. This practice is not for the faint-hearted and is a testament to the villagers’ strong belief in divine protection.
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06/6Huranga
In Dauji, near Mathura, the day after Holi is marked by Huranga, a game where men drench women with colors and water, and women, in turn, tear off the men’s clothes. This boisterous event is filled with laughter and teasing, and it’s a tradition that celebrates the playful spirit of Holi. The event culminates in a friendly tussle, where the roles of chaser and chased are reversed, and everyone is drenched in colors and joy.
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