English 
Braj Holi 2026: Dates, Schedule, and Religious Significance
Braj Holi 2026, the vibrant festival of colors, begins on 23rd January 2026 with Basant Panchami. This celebration takes place across the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh, including Vrindavan, Barsana, Mathura, and Nandgaon, and continues for approximately 40 days, blending colors, devotion, and rich cultural traditions.
Key Dates of Braj Holi 2026
| Date | Day | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 January 2026 | Friday | Basant Panchami – Beginning of Holi | Banke Bihari Temple and all temples in Braj |
| 24 February 2026 | Tuesday | Ladoo Mar Holi (Fag Invitation) | Shri Ji Temple, Barsana |
| 25 February 2026 | Wednesday | Lathmar Holi | Rangili Gali, Barsana |
| 26 February 2026 | Thursday | Lathmar Holi | Nand Bhavan, Nandgaon |
| 27 February 2026 | Friday | Rangbharni Ekadashi / Flower Holi | Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan |
| 1 March 2026 | Sunday | Chhadimar Holi | Gokul |
| 2 March 2026 | Monday | Raman Reti Holi / Widow Holi | Gokul and Vrindavan |
| 3 March 2026 | Tuesday | Holika Dahan | Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura |
| 4 March 2026 | Wednesday | Dhulendi (Main Holi) | Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, Gokul |
| 5 March 2026 | Thursday | Dauji ka Huranga | Dauji Temple, Mathura |
Significance and Tradition of Braj Holi
Braj Holi is not just a festival of colors; it is a symbol of devotion, love, and cultural heritage. The festival begins with Basant Panchami and lasts for nearly 40 days. This period, known as the Festival of Colors, features events that hold both religious and cultural significance:
-
Ladoo Mar Holi: The traditional invitation ceremony where laddoos are thrown.
-
Lathmar Holi: Women playfully hit men with sticks in Barsana and Nandgaon, a unique tradition.
-
Flower Holi: Flowers are used to play Holi in temples of Vrindavan.
-
Dhulendi: The main day of color celebration.
-
Dauji ka Huranga: A traditional celebration held at Dauji Temple in Mathura.
During Braj Holi, devotees honor Radha Rani and Lord Krishna with fresh flowers and colors. The region resonates with devotional songs, kirtans, and cultural performances, making it one of India’s most special and spiritually vibrant Holi celebrations.
Why Braj Holi is Special
Braj Holi is unique because it is not just a one-day festival; it is an extended celebration of colors, devotion, and community bonding. Every ritual is connected to the leelas of Radha and Krishna and their divine love, making the festival deeply spiritual as well as culturally rich.
