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Lathmar Holi, traditionally held in the towns of Barsana and Nandgaon in Mathura, attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year.
Even a slight push can result in a stampede. (Image source: X/@Benarasiyaa)
A video from Mathura in Uttar Pradesh caught attention after it showed huge crowds gathering for the famous Lathmaar Holi celebrations. The festival, traditionally held in Barsana and Nandgaon (cities closely associated with the Radha-Krishna tradition), attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year.
But the latest photos have caused concern, not excitement. The footage shows a huge rush of people crowding the streets.
A situation like the stampede in Mathura for Holi fruits
The clip, which was shared on X, shows police officials using a wooden barrier pulley system to block a large number of people gathered at the venue.
When officials remove the barrier seconds later, a sudden wave of people rush forward. The huge size raises serious safety concerns. Even a slight push can result in a stampede.
I’ve said it 1000 times before. Always avoid places where group gatherings are expected. In this country, such places are potential stampede sites and the administration can only do so much. This is from the Lathhmar Holi celebrations in UP’s Mathura. pic.twitter.com/6CGpfZh5Eb– Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) February 27, 2026
Many viewers reacted strongly to the photos.
One user commented, “People don’t realize how adapted we are to crowding. Everywhere you go is crowded. This is not how humans are supposed to live on a daily basis. Constant stress like this messes with the mind and body.”
Another wrote: “This is a disaster waiting to happen. Expecting the authorities to control the crowds is out of the question. There is only one solution to this. Don’t let the crowds build up to this level.”
Another person wrote: “Never go to mass gatherings if you want to live. The risk is too great.”
One person also noted, “YouTubeers, bloggers, and content creators should stop romanticizing potential hotspots as ‘must-see’ or ‘must-go’ places during peak season.
One person commented: “I’m getting anxious just watching this. Oh my god.”
One sharp reaction read: “Some people deserve to die in a stampede. I no longer feel compassion. Even a 6-year-old could say it’s dangerous to go here and it could kill you.”
“I always wanted to experience Holi Mathura but not anymore,” a viewer added.
Delhi, India, India
28 February 2026 at 13:21 IST
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