Ancient Braj Holi Traditions Arrive in Mumbai as Kandivali Hosts Cultural Celebration by Times Internet

Thousands gathered at Vrindavan Garden in Kandivali West as Times Internet recreated Braj Ki Holi with Lathmaar Holi, Phoolon Ki Holi and devotional performances rooted in Mathura and Barsana traditions.

Mumbai, March 04, 2026: A celebration inspired by centuries old Holi traditions of Braj brought a different kind of festival experience to Mumbai as Vrindavan Garden in Kandivali West transformed into a cultural space reflecting the spirit of Mathura, Vrindavan and Barsana.
The event titled “Braj Ki Holi” was organised by Times Internet and drew large crowds of families and festival enthusiasts seeking a traditional celebration centred on heritage, devotion and community participation.

Unlike many commercial Holi parties that emphasise music festivals and nightlife formats, the celebration followed a strict no alcohol, no smoking and no synthetic colours policy. Organisers focused on recreating rituals associated with Braj Holi traditions while ensuring a safe and family friendly environment.
One of the central highlights was Lathmaar Holi, where Govindas from Nandgaon and Gopis from Barsana performed the traditional stick play ritual that symbolises playful folklore linked to the region’s Holi celebrations.

The event also featured Phoolon Ki Holi, where flower petals were showered over the gathering, reflecting a ritual commonly associated with celebrations in Vrindavan temples.
Visitors also participated in Matki Phod, a well known festive activity rooted in Braj traditions where participants attempt to break a suspended pot as part of the celebration.
Organisers introduced herbal colours for the celebration, ensuring that the Holi powders used were natural, dry and skin safe while avoiding the use of water and chemical based pigments.

Music and live performances formed an integral part of the evening. Performers Khyati Adlakha and Bhushan Singal presented devotional rock performances that blended spiritual themes with contemporary stage energy.
The programme also featured a musical performance by Element Shiva, where guitarist Sarthak Mudgal and tabla artist Ranita De presented a fusion of classical and contemporary music styles.
The evening concluded with a performance by a 25 member Maharashtrian Dhol Tasha Pathak group whose rhythmic percussion created a grand finale linking regional traditions of Maharashtra with the festive spirit of Braj.

The celebration comes at a time when India’s festival economy continues to grow rapidly, with large scale events and ticketed experiences becoming common in major cities. Cultural organisers say initiatives such as Braj Ki Holi aim to reconnect urban audiences with traditional festival practices.
“Braj Ki Holi Lathmaar wali Bhagavat” is a cultural project developed by Times Internet to bring authentic Indian festival traditions to urban audiences while prioritising safety, heritage and meaningful participation.
Times Internet is one of India’s largest digital products companies, reaching more than 700 million users across platforms spanning news, entertainment, education and culture.

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