Lathmar Holi 2025: Why Women Playfully Chase Men With Sticks In This Age-Old Ritual– Full Story Inside

Hundreds of women in two towns of northern India will celebrate Holi, the festival of colours, in a unique way by playfully striking men with wooden sticks. This tradition, known as Lathmar Holi or Stick Holi, is an age-old custom where men pretend to tease the women, and the women respond by hitting them in a lighthearted manner.

The celebrations are based on a legend of the Hindu god Krishna. According to the tale, Krishna playfully sprayed his beloved Radha and her friends with colourful powders. This tradition is recreated every year in Barsana and Nandgaon, twin towns located about 115 kilometres (70 miles) south of New Delhi. The women are from Nandgaon, the mythical hometown of Krishna, while the men come from Barsana, the birthplace of Radha.

During the festival, the men wear turbans and carry shields to protect themselves from the women's blows. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, music, and vibrant colours as people throw red, yellow, green, and saffron powders into the air. Devotees, covered in bright hues, later gather at the historic 19th-century Nandagram Temple to offer prayers. They share sweets and drinks as part of the joyous occasion.

Adding to the fun, some men are caught by the women and dressed up in female attire. They then sing and dance along with them, making the event even more entertaining for onlookers.

The Lathmar Holi festival draws large crowds from across India and the world, with visitors eager to witness this unique celebration. Holi traditions differ across the country, and in most places, the main celebrations will take place on Wednesday. On this day, streets and lanes will turn into colourful playgrounds as people throw water balloons and use squirt guns to douse each other in vibrant hues.

Holi marks the arrival of spring and is widely celebrated in India, Nepal, and other countries with Indian communities. The festival symbolises joy, unity, and the victory of good over evil.