Bollywood and Holi have always been culturally connected. Many Hindi films have captured the festival’s vibrant spirit, making it look like a celebration filled with color, dance, and romance. If you have ever dreamed of celebrating Holi just like in the movies, you don’t need a big budget to make it happen. Here’s a guide to India’s most iconic Holi destinations, each offering a unique experience inspired by Bollywood.
1. Mathura and Vrindavan
Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, are famous for their grand Holi celebrations. The streets come alive with colors, music, and joyous celebrations, drawing visitors from all over India and the world. While not many Bollywood movies have directly filmed Holi scenes in the region, songs like Radha Kaise Na Jale from Lagaan (2001) reflect the playful love of Radha and Krishna, much like the legends surrounding Mathura’s Holi. The classic Holi Khele Raghuveera from Baghban (2003) also captures the festive spirit seen in North India.
Budget Tip: For travelers from across India or the world, take a train to Mathura, use local transport to get to Barsana and Nandgaon, and stay in guesthouses or community-run homestays for an affordable experience while enjoying local street food and ‘dhabas.’
2. Barsana and Nandgaon
In Barsana and Nandgaon, Holi is celebrated with a unique tradition called Lathmar Holi, where women playfully hit men with sticks while colors fill the air. While Bollywood has rarely explored this tradition, Toilet – Ek Prem Katha (2017) featured glimpses of the celebrations. Historical films like Jodhaa Akbar (2008) have also portrayed grand Holi festivities similar in scale.
Budget Tip: Consider taking a budget-friendly local train, use public transportation to explore the area, stay in guesthouses or affordable hostels, and enjoy local food at street vendors or small eateries for a more economical experience.
3. Varanasi
Varanasi’s Holi is a mesmerizing mix of tradition and chaos. The ghats turn into a sea of colors, and bhaang-infused revelry adds to the celebration. The film Raanjhanaa (2013) beautifully captures the Holi experience in Varanasi, especially in the song Tum Tak.
Budget Tip: Take a train to Varanasi, use shared rickshaws for transport, stay in budget hotels or guesthouses near the ghats, and enjoy affordable meals at smaller eateries around the area.
4. Purulia
If you are looking for a Holi celebration beyond the usual, Purulia in West Bengal offers a unique experience with folk performances and the famous Chhau dance. For a glimpse of traditional Bengali Holi, Parineeta (2005) beautifully captures the essence of Dol Jatra, Bengal’s unique way of celebrating the festival with colors and music.
Budget Tip: Use local buses for affordable travel, stay with local families through homestays, and buy fresh produce from local markets to cook inexpensive meals.
5. Jaipur
Jaipur’s Holi celebrations at Govind Dev Ji Temple blend devotion with colors. While Bollywood has not directly filmed Holi here, the city’s royal charm has been featured in movies like Jodhaa Akbar (2008) and Badrinath Ki Dulhania (2017), which has a lively Holi sequence.
Budget Tip: Use public transportation, stay in heritage guesthouses with dormitories for budget-friendly accommodation, and shop for affordable souvenirs at the local markets.
6. Manali
For those who want to mix Holi with adventure, Manali offers a breathtaking setting with snow-capped peaks. Inspired by Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013), many travelers head to the mountains for a youthful and carefree Holi celebration. The film’s hit song Balam Pichkari perfectly captures this fun-loving spirit.
Budget Tip: Carpool with other travelers, stay in campsites or shared hostels, and enjoy free or low-cost outdoor activities like hiking to make your trip to Manali more affordable.
Holi in India is a celebration like no other, and over the years, Bollywood has perfectly captured its vibrant energy and joy. Whether you are drawn to the colorful streets of Mathura, the unique traditions of Barsana, the lively ghats of Varanasi, or the cultural charm of Purulia, each destination offers a one-of-a-kind experience inspired by Bollywood films. No matter your budget or interests, these places have something special to make your Holi unforgettable.
So, pack your bags, choose your destination, and get ready to create lasting memories this Holi!
(Jatinder Paul Singh, Co-founder and CEO, Viacation)