As the festival of Holi 2026 approaches, preparations have already begun across India. While the festival of colours will be celebrated nationwide on March 4, the grand and traditional Braj Holi celebrations have started earlier in Uttar Pradesh’s Barsana, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.
Shri Ladli Ji Maharaj Temple: Heart of Barsana Holi
The iconic Shri Ladli Ji Maharaj Temple, located in Barsana in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, is the epicenter of the famous Laddu Maar and Lathmar Holi festivities. Dedicated to Goddess Radha, the temple is also known as the Radha Rani Temple or Shri Ji Temple.
Situated atop the Bhanugarh (Brahmanchal) hill at a height of approximately 250 meters, the temple is often referred to as “Barsane ka Matha.” Devotees climb around 108 steps to reach the shrine, where Radha Rani (Ladli Ji) and Lord Krishna (Lal Ji) are worshipped together.
The temple is renowned for major festivals such as Radhashtami, Janmashtami, Laddu Maar Holi, and Lathmar Holi.
Unique Traditions: Laddu Maar and Lathmar Holi
Barsana’s Holi celebrations are globally famous for their unique rituals:
Laddu Maar Holi
During this celebration, temple priests and devotees throw laddus into the air as prasad, and participants joyfully catch them. The temple is beautifully decorated with flowers, and special offerings like “Chhappan Bhog” are presented to Radha-Krishna, followed by grand aarti ceremonies.
Lathmar Holi
In Lathmar Holi, women from Barsana playfully strike men from Nandgaon with sticks (lathis), while the men protect themselves with shields. This tradition is inspired by the divine love legend of Radha and Krishna, where Lord Krishna and his friends would visit Barsana to play Holi with Radha and her companions, who would chase them away with sticks.
Historical and Spiritual Significance
It is believed that the temple was established around 5,000 years ago by King Vajranabh, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna. The temple resonates with continuous chants of “Radha Radha,” creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Every year, lakhs of devotees from India and abroad visit Barsana to witness the vibrant and culturally rich Holi celebrations, making it one of the most sought-after destinations during the festival season.
With Holi just around the corner, Barsana’s Laddu Maar and Lathmar Holi once again promise a spectacular blend of devotion, tradition, and joyous celebration rooted in Braj’s timeless heritage.
