It is that time of the year when Mathura, Vrindavan, Birsana and Nandgaon, all associated with Lord Krishna, his life and times, sport a festive and colourful look. That is the magic of Holi, the festival of colours and water which as per mythology was celebrated by Krishna and Radha.

Birsana is the birthplace of Radha while Nandgaon is that of Krishna. Holi starts with Laddoo Holi in Birsana where bundi laddoos of bright yellow colour are thrown at each other.

The next day is the Lathmar Holi at Birsana and Nandgaon. It is said Krishna would visit Birsana and tease Radha and her friends who in turn would chase him with sticks.

#Watch: Devotees play Holi at Nandgaon, Mathura

Nandgaon is a religious centre in the Braj region. It is believed that lord Krishna in his childhood resided in this place with his family. Nandgaon was named after Nand Baba, the father of Krishna.

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The main Holi celebrations take place at Mathura’s Dwarakadeesh Temple and Vrindavan’s Banke Bihari Temple. In the latter, Phoolonwali Holi is also held which is celebrated with flowers.

Vrindavan also sees a unique celebration at Pagla Baba Ashram in which widows play Holi with dry colours and flowers.