Varanasi transforms into a vibrant spectacle on Rangbhari Ekadashi, four days before Holi, as the city of Kashi welcomes Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in a grand tradition. This festival, falling on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in Phalgun month, is steeped in mythology where Shiva brings Parvati from her maternal home to Kashi for their gouna ceremony.
The streets echo with chants of ‘Namah Parvati Pataye Har Har Mahadev’ as devotees shower gulal, abir, and flowers in celebration. Unlike other places where Holi preparations build up slowly, Kashi dives straight into the festivities with permission from the divine couple. Temples are adorned with lights and decorations, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and devotion.
At the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a majestic dola procession carries the deities through the narrow lanes, drenching the area in colors. Security is tightened with barricades, and touch darshan is suspended for safety. This year, a special highlight is the arrival of rasiyas from Mathura-Braj, who will perform their famous rasa dances, blending Braj’s playful Holi spirit with Kashi’s sacred vibes.
Local devotee Prabhunath Tripathi shares that residents celebrate alongside the gods, seeking blessings to play Holi. Shiva even takes Parvati on a tour of her in-laws’ home. Religiously, worship on this day is believed to grant desired life partners and resolve life’s hurdles. Every temple in Kashi gleams with fresh garlands and lamps, drawing thousands into the colorful revelry.