Holi marks the arrival of spring and the playful celebration of colours. It is a lively celebration that is observed across the country. This year, Holi will be celebrated on 'Phalguna Purnima', which falls on March 4, 2026.
The 'Purnima Tithi' will begin at 05.55 pm on March 2, and will end at 5.07 pm on March 3.
North to South: Holi celebrations across India
North India
In North India, Holi is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan and Punjab. As Holi is linked to Lord Krishna and Radha, places like Mathura and Vrindavan celebrate it with huge grandeur. Here Holi is known as 'Phoolon ki Holi'. Devotees gather at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan to celebrate the divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha and play Holi with not only coloured powders but also with flowers.
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West India
In Maharashtra, Holi is celebrated with both fun and religious traditions. There is a popular custom known as 'Dahi Handi'. People form human pyramids to break a clay pot filled with yogurt hung high above. In Gujarat, the festival, also known as 'Dhuleti', features 'Garba', a traditional dance where men and women dance energetically to drumbeats while colours fill the air.
South India
Holi is becoming increasingly popular, especially among young people. In Chennai and Bangalore, Holi is generally celebrated with coloured powders, water balloons and lively parties in parks and public spaces.
East India
In East India, specifically in Bengal, Holi is celebrated as 'Dol Purnima', both combining the festival of colours with traditional worship. People gather in temples, especially in Santiniketan, where Rabindranath Tagore’s institution celebrates with songs and dances to welcome spring.
In Odisha, Holi includes rituals like 'Chhera Pahanra', where the King of Puri sweeps the temple path to symbolise the triumph of good over evil. Also, people play with colours and exchange sweets.
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Besides the traditional values, the colours of Holi boost mood, while outdoor celebrations in sunlight help the body produce vitamin D, strengthening immunity. Colours boost the mind, enhance mood and ease stress.
