In certain regions of the country, the festival of Holi is not celebrated with the same fervor and enthusiasm as in other parts. Despite being widely observed across India, there are areas where the festival remains absent from the festivities, and locals often travel to neighboring regions to partake in the colorful celebrations.
1. Jharkhand, Durgapur
In the village of Durgapur in the state of Jharkhand, Holi is not celebrated. For nearly 200 years, the residents of this village have refrained from observing the festival. Legend has it that a tragic incident occurred on Holi day, resulting in the death of the king’s son. Since then, Holi has not been celebrated in Durgapur. Instead, residents travel to neighboring villages to partake in the festivities.
2. Uttarakhand, Rudraprayag
Several villages in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, including Kurjan, Jaudla, and Kwili, do not celebrate Holi. It is believed by the locals that the goddess Tripura Sundari, revered in these villages, does not appreciate noisy celebrations. Moreover, the goddess is said to protect the village, and in reverence, the residents abstain from celebrating Holi.
3. Gujarat, Banaskantha
In the village of Ramsan in the Banaskantha district of Gujarat, Holi has not been celebrated for nearly 200 years. According to local beliefs, the village has been cursed by certain saints, preventing the residents from observing Holi.
4. Tamil Nadu
In the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Holi is not celebrated. Instead, a local festival known as Masi Magam is observed, which coincides with the Holi festival. This festival holds significance for the people of Tamil Nadu, and as a result, Holi is not celebrated in the region.
Despite the absence of Holi celebrations in these areas, the spirit of unity and joy remains intact as residents participate in alternative festivities or travel to nearby regions to partake in the colorful rituals.