Agarwaltimes - 19 stunning photos of Lathmar Holi

Lathmar Holi – a centuries-old practice that gives a free hand to women to beat up their men for a day – kicked off in Barsana amidst colourful and raucous celebrations.

A highlight of the Holi festivities in Brajbhoomi – land of Krishna and Radha, the Lathmar Holi draws from local legend that says that Krishna visited his beloved Radha on this day and teased her and her friends. In retaliation, the women chased him away.

To recreate this event, men from Krishna’s village, Nandgaon visit Radha’s hometown Barsana and are greeted with abuses and sticks (lath) that gave rise to this tradition.