The state capital erupted into a spectacle of colours on Wednesday as the grand Rang Panchami procession made its way through the city.
Thousands of revellers danced to drumbeats, flung gulal into the air, and celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm, turning the streets into a mesmerising canvas of festivity.
The procession began from Chowk and passed through Ghoda Nakkas, Jumerati, and Kundan Namkeen before culminating at the Curfew Wali Mata Temple at Peer Gate. Along the way, massive crowds gathered to witness beautifully crafted tableaux featuring Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Radha-Krishna, and the iconic Holi celebrations of Braj.
Traditional drums, DJs, and musical bands filled the air with infectious energy. Decorated horses and camels added grandeur, while machines spraying gulal and flower petals created a breathtaking visual spectacle. The entire city resonated with joy as participants revelled in the vibrant hues of Rang Panchami.
At the Curfew Wali Mata Temple, the procession, locally referred to as Ger, reached its peak as six tankers showered gulal over the crowd. Red, pink, yellow, and green dust filled the air, transforming the atmosphere into a swirling cloud of colours.
Social worker Pramod Nema recounted the history of the Rang Panchami Ger in Bhopal back to 1956. Inspired by Indore’s grand celebrations, Sarafa jewellers initiated the first procession, which later came under the Hindu Utsav Samiti’s banner in 1960. The traditional route through Chowk Bazaar, Loha Bazaar, Jumerati, and Hanumanganj has since become an enduring part of the city’s festive legacy.
Meanwhile, Rang Panchami celebrations extended beyond the old city. At Congress State President Jitu Patwari’s residence, a Holi Milan ceremony brought political leaders together in a vibrant display of camaraderie. Patwari and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar sang Holi songs, while MLAs performed traditional “Fag” music.
Processions at Subhash Chowk, Sant Nagar, BHEL, and Kolar drew large crowds, amplifying the festive spirit.
Berasia witnessed its own Rang Panchami procession, led by Hindu Utsav Samiti. The parade, which started from Sanwaliya Temple, saw enthusiastic participation as it wound through the main streets of the neighbouring town.
