The Divine Tradition of Holi Celebration at Bhatt ji’s Haveli

2024.03.02 (Vrindavan Today News) The divine legacy of Holi celebrations continues to thrive at Bhattji’s Haveli in Vrindavan. The tradition of Holi has been nurtured by the Bhatt family from several generations. They have preserved the essence of devotion and the artistic expression, ensuring that the spirit of Holi remains eternal.

A divine tradition of Holi that is being cherished since the 16^th century is resonated in the ancient abode of Bhattji’s Haveli amid the echoes of devotion. This sacred practice, initiated by Shri Gadadhar Bhatt ji Maharaj in the 16th century, continues to be upheld by his descendants, infusing spirituality into every stroke of color.Thakur Shri Madan Mohan Lal ji of the Bhatt family adorns Himself with the sacred hues of gulal, playing Holi with divine fervor within the hallowed walls of Bhattji temple.

Shri Raghunath Bhatta Goswami, one of the famous Six Goswamis of Vrindavan, was the Guru of Shri Gadadhar Bhatt Goswami. The devotional practices established by both the acharyas continue to be revered even today.

Even in present times, the tradition of worship he established remains steadfast. Shri Gadadhar Bhatta, was the disciple of Raghunath Bhatta Goswami.

The 40 days of Holi, beginning from Vasant Panchami to Dol Purnima, is celebrated in its traditional grandeur at the Bhatt ji temple.

Evolution of Tradition: From Temples to Havelis

The ancient tradition of Holi in Braj Mandal has evolved from temples to Havelis. Now, instead of temples, the emphasis is on spreading colors on devotees for their spiritual upliftment. This tradition, upheld within the Haveli for the past 500 years, sees its culmination in the joyous gatherings where society sings hymns and plays with colors.

Musical Bliss: The Essence of Holi Celebrations

From 2 to 4 in the afternoon, amidst the melodious tunes of Dhrupad and Dhamar, the Bhatt family gathers to sing songs of Holi. Various ragas such as Sarang, Kanrau, Malav, Bilawal, Dev Gandhar, Asavari, Gauri, Kafi, and Vasanta are employed to evoke the sentiments of the festival. The emotions expressed in these songs are reflected in the playful interactions with Thakurji.

Artistic Expression of Devotion with Colors

Members of the Bhatt family delicately adorn the white backdrop of Thakurji’s Pichvai with handmade gulal, creating intricate patterns of flowers, leaves, and motifs reminiscent of Yamuna Ghats, lotus groves, and celestial abodes.