Spring arrives, and with it comes the vibrant festival of colors, Holi. While Holi is celebrated with passion across India, there’s a magical quality to experiencing it in Banaras, especially in the unique style known as MASAAN Holi. At the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, Shiva devotees celebrate Holi in a unique way called Masan Holi. They believe that Lord Shiva blesses them from the crematorium. People gather at Manikarnika Ghat and play Holi using gulal and ashes from the pyre.
History, Significance, and Origin of Masaan Holi :
On Rangbhari Ekadashi, it’s believed that Lord Shiva takes Maa Gauri to his home, making her Gouna. On this day, Shiva, along with gods and humans, plays Holi. However, ghosts, who are dear to Shiva, can’t join. So, the next day, Shiva plays Masan Holi with them at Marghat using pyre ashes. Raja Man Singh of Jaipur built the Masan Temple in Kashi in the 16th century for this purpose. Devotees gather there every year to play Masan Holi.
In the early morning, devotees gather at the Ghat to play Masan Holi with ashes from burning pyres. Despite the eerie atmosphere, enthusiasm outweighs fear. The incredible sight in Varanasi captivates visitors worldwide who come to witness this unique Holi celebration in the city of Moksha Nagri Varanasi.
In Banaras, the Holi festival kicks off a few days before Ekadashi. It begins with Gauri’s gauna, where she leaves her father’s house for Shiva’s abode. Shiva first visits Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, followed by Rudrabhishek the next day. Shiva and Parvati are brought to the main temple in a silver palanquin, with devotees showering colors and gulal. People also throw flower petals and colours from their rooftops. Shiva enters the main temple amid drumbeats, followed by worship. Afterward, Lord Shiva commands Varanasi to celebrate Holi.
When is the Holi Festival in Banaras in 2024?
The Holi Festival in Varanasi is on March 25, 2024, which falls on a Monday. It’s a long weekend, so you don’t need to take any extra leave. Just plan accordingly, and you’re all set to enjoy the festivities!
How to reach Banaras?
Banaras is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport connects the city to major Indian cities and some international destinations. Alternatively, you can opt for trains, with Varanasi Junction being the main railway station. For those who prefer road travel, buses ply regularly from nearby cities like Lucknow, Allahabad, and Patna.
Best Accommodation in Banaras at the Time of Holi
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at one of the heritage hotels or guesthouses near the ghats, where you can wake up to the sight of the Ganges River. Popular choices include Brijrama Palace, Taj Nadesar Palace, and Suryauday Haveli. For budget travellers, hostels and guesthouses in the city centre provide comfortable lodging at affordable rates.
- Taj Ganges, INR 20000 for a couple for a night
- Amritara Suryauday Haveli, INR 18000 for a couple for a night
- Tree of Life Resort & Spa, INR 14000 for a couple, for a night
- Om Vilas Benares, INR 7000 for a couple for a night
- Hotel River Rhythm Assi Ghat, INR 5000 for a couple for a night
- goSTOPS Varanasi, INR 4000 for a couple for a night
- Stay Banaras: A Boutique Hotel, INR 3000 for a couple for a night
- Shiv Rudraksh Resort, INR 2000 for a couple for a night
- Madsquad Hostel, INR 600 for a bed for one night
- La Vacation India Hostel, INR 400 for a bed for one night
Best Places to Visit:
Assi Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Sarnath
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Food to try in Banaras:
No visit to Banaras is complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. From mouth watering street food to elaborate thalis, the city offers a culinary journey like no other. Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like Kachori Sabzi, Aloo Kachori, Baati Chokha, Chena Dahi Vada, Choora Matar, Laaiya Channa, Dahi Chutney Golgappe, Tamatar Chaat, lassi, and of course, the famous Banarasi paan.
Necessary things to pack
- White outfits display colours well. Consider wearing something disposable or buying a local white kurta for an authentic look.
- Ladies, layer underneath to avoid the wet T-shirt look if you get soaked.
- Wear a hat or scarf to shield your hair, especially if you have highlights.
- Sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from colours coming from all angles.
Travel Tips to Banaras on Holi
- Get your own stash of colours to throw around during the festival. Street stalls around the city sell them, so be prepared for the messy fun.
- Most shops and restaurants will be closed until around 5 p.m. during the festival, so make sure you have enough food stocked up or plan to eat out later after the celebrations.
- Apply a protective layer, like baby oil, to minimise staining. Remember to cover areas like behind the ears and up the nose.
- Protect your camera or smartphone with plastic and tape to capture memorable moments without worrying about water pistols firing at you.
- For the best Holi experience in Varanasi 2024, go early, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., when people are calm.
- Assi Ghat hosts the main celebration. Avoid big groups, as they may have drunk people. Watch from a distance for safety. Bring friends for more safety.
- Tourists, including foreigners, join in.
- Protect your hair and skin with oil to avoid harsh colours and rashes. Enjoy your Holi responsibly!
During the Massan Holi Festival, the city changes into colours, rituals, and celebrations, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper connection with India’s cultural heritage.
