Unusual And Bizarre Holi Traditions Observed Across India

– Abhay Kumar

Lathmaar Holi

Strange as it may sound, in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, men tease women, and women respond by chasing and playfully beating them with sticks.

Hola Mohalla

Celebrated a day after Holi in Punjab, Sikh warriors take part in mock fights, including swordfighting and martial arts in a three-day festival.

Bhang

This is a nation-wide tradition wherein people celebrate by drinking Thandai, a milk based drink infused with Bhang - an indian form of Cannabis said to have healing powers.

Huranga

Similar to Lathmaar Holi, Huranga is a tradition observed in Dauji, Mathura, where men drench women in water and colours, and women tear off men’s clothes.

Basanta Utsav

Celebrated in various parts of West Bengal, this Holi tradition honours the great poet Rabindranath Tagore by hosting festivities and cultural events.

Phlegrean Islands

This thrilling tradition is seen in Saunthana, Uttar Pradesh. Villagers let scorpions dance on their body; it is believed that they don’t sting on this holy day.

Chita-Bhasma Holi

An ancient tradition in Varanasi, where people use cremation ashes, mix them with gulal, and play Holi with it. It is meant to pay respect to the dead.