Barsana:Holi celebrations have begun in the historical town of Barsana—the birthplace of Radha Rani in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura. The first chaupai (singing and musical party) took place on the evening of Mahashivratri on Wednesday as streets filled with the vibrant hues of abir and gulaal.
The second chaupai will be held on March 7, marking the beginning of ‘Laddu Maar Holi’, followed by Lathmar Holi on March 8.
The chaupai procession, a traditional event in Barsana, began at the Shri Ladli Ji Radha Rani temple, led by Goswami community chief Rambharose Goswami. The members of the community also threw colours and danced to the beats of dhol, nagada, and manjira drums.
Lathmar Holi, a tradition in which women chase men with sticks, will be held on the following day at the Shri Ladli Ji Radha Rani temple and Holi festivities in Braj Mandal will continue for 40 days.
The celebration began earlier this month on Maghi Purnima when the Rangotsav began at Dwarkadhish temple. Other events include Rangbhari Holi at Banke Bihari temple on March 10, Holika Dahan on March 13, and Dauji's Huranga in Baldev on March 15. Holi will conclude at Ranganath Ji temple in Vrindavan on March 22.