Day 4 - Widow Holi
A relatively new form of Holi celebration is Widow Holi. Many widows cast out from their communities, travel hundreds of km's to seek sanctuary in the Gopinath Temple, Vrindavan.
Pushing back against the social norms of the Indian culture, these women have chosen to celebrate Holi themselves and in their own unique way.
Unfortunately, when we arrived, we were informed that due to the death of a major priest a few days before, the celebrations would be cancelled.
These are the images I captured of the service held for the priest.
Day 5 - Vrindavan Holi (Morning)
Celebrations began once again early in the morning at the Banke Bihari Temple. This time we arrived first and positioned ourselves with a clear entrance through the crowd and straight to the top balcony.
From here we had uninterrupted views of the celebrations below.
Upon leaving this temple, we made our way to the Shri Radha Vallabh Temple where the room was full of people praying to the alters all the while been showered in water and colour. The humidity was high, and with the light spilling in from above the entire temple was going wild.
Day 5 - Holika Dahan Mathura (Afternoon)
Celebrations continued that afternoon in the nearby city of Mathura where thousands of people celebrate alongside a large procession of colourful floats. Each float was bellowing loud dance music and covering passers-by with water and powder.
After the procession, numerous bonfires are lit around the city to commemorate the legend of Prahlad.
Main Holi: Mathura
While Holi is celebrated throughout many cities across India. One of the largest is located in the city of Mathura.
Rising early, we caught local priest grinding and preparing Bhang (cannabis-infused drink) down near the Vishram Ghat.
From here the main celebrations occur at the Krishna Temple and Sri Dwhakadeesh Temple.
Absolutely stunning work!!.