Did You Know the Story Behind the Viral Rolls-Royce Holi Celebration in Kolkata?

Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated in countless unique ways across India. You may have ticked off Braj ki Holi, Vrindavan ki Holi, or even the exuberant Lathmar Holi in Banaras from your bucket list. But here’s a question that might surprise you: Have you ever seen a Rolls-Royce taking centre stage in a Holi celebration? Yes, a Rolls-Royce! But not just any Rolls-Royce — a vintage car linked to the famous writer Rudyard Kipling. Sounds like something straight out of a storybook, right? Well, it’s happening in Kolkata. Intrigued? So come, let's find out the story behind this viral Rolls-Royce Holi event that has taken the city of joy by storm.

The History Behind the Rolls-Royce Holi

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Just like every region in India has its way of celebrating Holi, Kolkata has a twist that sets it apart — Doljatra, also known as Basant Utsav. But this year, something truly extraordinary is making waves in the City of Joy: the Rolls-Royce Holi. If you’ve been scrolling through your social media feed, chances are you’ve already seen the vibrant scenes of a vintage Rolls-Royce Phantom gliding through the streets of Kolkata, with the Howrah Bridge as a stunning backdrop. But hold up — this isn’t just any luxurious car show. The real magic lies in the history the car carries.

This 100-year-old Rolls-Royce Phantom was once the prized possession of none other than Rudyard Kipling, the iconic author of The Jungle Book. After passing through several hands, it was acquired by the Bagla family in 1927, who were deeply devoted to Lord Krishna. And that’s where the story gets even more fascinating. The Bagla family didn’t just buy a fancy car; they transformed this vintage beauty into a chariot for Radha and Krishna, creating a divine procession that takes over the streets of Kolkata every year during Doljatra.

The event kicks off at the Satyanarayan Jee Temple on Kalakar Street at 12 PM on the 10th day of Falgun, which happens to be March 13, 2025, this year. Dressed in their finest, the idols of Radha and Krishna are placed in the Rolls-Royce, and the procession begins its journey. Crossing the iconic Howrah Bridge, it winds its way through the lively lanes of Burrabazar, where thousands of devotees — and spectators alike — immerse themselves in the rhythms of drums, the joyful chime of cymbals, and the riot of gulal (coloured powder). For about 4-5 hours, the streets of Kolkata transform into a stunning spectacle of spiritual devotion and unrestrained festivity, making it one of the most unique Holi celebrations in the country.

So, if you’ve ever wanted to experience Kolkata in its true, unfiltered spirit, this is the one event you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re religious or simply in search of a vibrant cultural experience, the Rolls-Royce Holi is a celebration that promises memories you'll cherish forever. Grab your favourite gulal, and get ready to join this magnificent procession!