Rajasthan's Udaipur: Menar Village Lights Up With Fiery Holi Celebrations
Udaipur (Rajasthan), India — On March 16, ANI reported from Menar, a village located in Rajasthan’s Udaipur district, about an unusual way they celebrated “Gungudholi,” a distinct version of Holi. During this event, residents commemorated the festival using gunpowder. firecrackers , cannons , with gun exhibitions on Saturday.
The yearly custom, firmly embedded in the area's past, attracted big audiences as the town resounded with festive shots.
As per local accounts, the festival stems from an ancient battle when Menar's fighters vanquished the Mughal army.
In celebration of their triumph, they initiated the custom of marking Holi with explosions, representing their courage and defiance.
This unique tradition has persisted, turning it into a standout feature of the area's Holi celebrations throughout history.
The village of Menar, famous for its tradition of warriors, enthusiastically hosts this event. As attendees participate in lively festivities, officials make sure robust safety protocols are followed to avoid any accidents.
The dazzling display of 'Gunpowder Holi' has drawn interest far beyond Rajasthan, luring tourists eager to experience this unique blend of history and celebration.
Rajasthan celebrates Holi with themes of royalty and warriors. Both Jaipur and Pushkar attract big crowds during Gunpowder Holi, featuring vibrant parades and traditional folk shows.
The Holi celebration in India varies from one state to another,Each region adds its own distinct cultural flavor to the vibrant festival of colors.
During Holi in Uttar Pradesh, the festival is particularly renowned for being observed in Barsana and Nandgaon through Lathmar Holi, an event where women joyously strike men using wooden sticks. Meanwhile, cities like Mathura and Vrindavan hold extended festivities lasting several days, featuring events such as Phoolon Ki Holi—celebrations involving flower throws—and Widows' Holi, which draw massive crowds of devout participants.
In Punjab, the Sikh community celebrates Hola Mohalla in Anandpur Sahib, with Nihang warriors demonstrating equestrian skills and performing Gatka, which highlights their bravery and cultural legacy.
In Bihar and Jharkhand, they observe Phaguwa, which features traditional folk music, the use of bhang, and bonfires called Holika. Meanwhile, in Maharashtra, young men engage in the Matki Phod tradition where they break pots filled with curd, drawing inspiration from Lord Krishna’s youthful antics.
In West Bengal, Shantiniketan hosts Basanta Utsav, an event founded by Rabindranath Tagore, during which Holi is celebrated through various artistic displays and the use of powdered colors. Additionally, the region observes Dol Jatra, featuring processions of Radha-Krishna statues accompanied by heartfelt musical tributes.
In Gujarat, particularly in Dwarka, Dhuleti witnesses extensive color play, whereas in Madhya Pradesh, the Hori Festival in Bundelkhand and Rang Panchami in Malwa prolong the celebrations of Holi over multiple days.
In their own distinctive manners, Southern and Northeastern regions celebrate Holi as well. In Karnataka, they mark Kamadahana, which represents the extinguishing of passions, whereas Goa rejoices in Shigmo through vibrant parades and traditional dance performances. Meanwhile, Odisha and Assam honor Dol Purnima and Yaosang respectively, integrating local customs into these festivities.
Regardless of varied traditions, Holi continues to be a celebration of happiness, harmony, and cultural richness, uniting individuals throughout the country. (ANI)
