Mumbai: Holi, known as the festival of colours, is traditionally celebrated over eight days. Five days after Holi, the festival of Rang Panchami is observed with great enthusiasm. According to Hindu religious beliefs, the tradition of celebrating Rang Panchami dates back to the Dwapar Yuga. It is believed that on this day, deities descend to Earth to partake in the festivities. Mythology suggests that Lord Krishna and Radha played Holi on this occasion. The festival is widely celebrated across various states in India, each with its own unique traditions and customs.
This year, according to the Hindu Vedic calendar, the Krishna Paksha Panchami Tithi of the Chaitra month will commence on 18 March at 10:09 PM and conclude on 20 March at 12:36 AM. As per Hindu customs, the festival is observed according to Udaya Tithi (the date prevailing at sunrise). Therefore, Rang Panchami in 2025 will be celebrated on 19 March.
In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Rang Panchami is marked by the grand celebration of the ‘Ger Utsav’. During this event, thousands gather on the streets as tankers shower them with coloured water. This lively procession, also known as ‘Fag Yatra,’ features people dancing to the beats of DJs, dhols, and nagadas while playing with colours. Besides Indore, the festival holds significance in Ujjain, Maheshwar, and other cities in the Malwa region.
In Maharashtra, Rang Panchami is celebrated with the throwing of gulal and abir. People apply colours to one another, and temples display tableaux of Lord Krishna and Radha. The festival is closely associated with the divine pastimes of Krishna and Radha. Many cities in Maharashtra also see the formation of ‘Govinda Mandalis’ (groups of young men who engage in celebratory activities).
Rajasthan observes Rang Panchami with great pomp and splendour. The festival is marked by the playing of Holi with gulal (coloured powder) and flowers in various cities across the state. In regions such as Mewar and Marwar, royal families organise special celebrations, making the occasion even more majestic.
In Uttar Pradesh, particularly in Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Nandgaon—places deeply associated with Lord Krishna—Rang Panchami is celebrated with immense enthusiasm. The festivities in temples like Banke Bihari, Dwarkadhish, and Gokul include colour play, devotional songs, and offerings of gulal and abir to the deities.
As different states of India observe Rang Panchami with their unique traditions, the festival continues to bring people together, spreading joy and vibrant colours across the nation.
