Different Names of Holi in India: Rang Panchami, Shigmo, Yaosang & More

Holi is one of the most joyful festivals in India, celebrated with colors, music and dance. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. While Holi is famous across the country, it is known by different names in different states. Each region has its own traditions, making the festival even more colorful and unique. Let’s explore the various names of Holi in India.

Holi, Festivals of Color

Holi is a festival of colors, joy and togetherness. Celebrated in India and many other countries, it marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. People play colorful powders, dance, sing and enjoy sweets like gujiya. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, a bonfire symbolizing the burning of evil. Holi spreads happiness, love and unity among all.

Different Names of Holi

Holi is known by different names across India, each with unique traditions and celebrations. Here are some of the names of Holi in different region:

• Rang Panchami
• Shigmo
• Dol Purnima/ Dol Jatra
• Yaosang
• Dhulandi/ Dhuleti
• Phagwah/ Phaghu
• Lathmar Holi
• Hola Mohalla

Rang Panchami

In Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, Holi is celebrated continue even after the main festival. The fifth day after Holi is called Rang Panchami, when people play with colors, dance and enjoy traditional sweets. This day marks the end of the Holi festivities in these states.

Shigmo

In Goa, Holi is known as Shigmo. It is a grand spring festival celebrated with processions, folk dances and traditional music. People paint their faces, dress in colorful clothes and participate in parades, making the festival a lively and cultural event.

Dol Purnima

In West Bengal and Odisha, Holi is called Dol Purnima or Dol Jatra. It is a special day for devotees of Lord Krishna. People wear saffron-colored clothes, carry idols of Krishna in processions, and sing devotional songs while playing with others.

Yaosang

In Manipur, Holi is called Yaosang and lasts for six days. The festival starts with the burning of a small hut, symbolizing the removal of evil. A special dance called Thabal Chongba, where people dance under the moonlight, is a key highlight of Yaosang.

Dhulandi/ Dhuleti

In North India, Holi is commonly known as Dhulandi or Dhuleti. On this day, people throw colors at each other, dance to lively music and celebrate with family and friends. This is the most widely recognized form of Holi in India.

Phagwah/ Phaghu

In Bihar and Jharkhand, Holi is called Phagwah or Phaghu. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, where people light bonfires to signify the victory of good over evil. The next day, they celebrate by smearing gulal (colored powder) on each other and singing traditional Holi songs.

Lathmar Holi

A unique form of Holi, Lathmar Holi, is celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon, near Mathura. Women playfully hit men with sticks (lath) while the men try to shield themselves. It is a fun-filled event that attracts many visitors.

Hola Mohalla

In Punjab, the Sikh community celebrates Hola Mohalla, a festival started by Guru Gobind Singh. Unlike traditional Holi, Hola Mohalla features martial arts displays, horse riding, poetry recitations and music, showcasing the warrior spirit of the Sikhs.