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Festival of colours rocks Gokul
by Brijesh Kr.Singh

     Gokul (UP): Streets were filled with sounds of drums and songs as people came out to revel in the festivities to mark the celebrations of 'Holi' in Gokul. Women dancing to the beats of drums, singing folk songs and men cheering amidst a shower of flowers marked the festivities in the city, which according to Hindu mythology is the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. But what set these celebrations apart was the use of sticks by women to beat the menfolk, as they tried to defend themselves. And though the women were quite rash while using the sticks, they said it was good fun. "We hit them with sticks, but it is an affectionate gesture on our part," said Preeti Shastri, a resident. Onlookers were quite bemused to witness the "Lath-Maar" (beating with sticks) Holi. "I'm enjoying it very much. It's as if the gods themselves are playing Holi here," said Nirmala, a visitor from Gujarat. Celebrated in the month of Fagun (February-March) according to the Hindu calendar, Holi, which signifies the triumph of good over evil, is also associated with the uninhibited expression of love and affection. Though Holi is celebrated on one particular day across the country, for people of Mathura, which is also the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood days, the festival lasts for many days.
-Mar 19, 2008