Holi is all about colors, laughter, dance, and togetherness, but let’s be real, what’s a celebration without music? Whether you’re in the middle of a full-on color war or just chilling in the sun, the right playlist can take your Holi celebrations to the next level!

But before we jump into the playlist, let’s take a quick look at how Holi actually started.

Where Did Holi Come From?

Holi is a festival with deep roots in history. It celebrates the victory of good over evil, dating back to the story of Prahlad and Holika. According to legend, Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, survived being burnt by his aunt Holika, which is why we light bonfires on Holika Dahan, to burn away negativity and welcome new beginnings.

But why do we play Holi with colors?

That tradition comes from Radha and Krishna, where Krishna playfully smeared colors on Radha’s fair face. That playful love became a festival in itself, bringing people together in joy.

Did you know Holi wasn’t just a Hindu festival?

The Mughals loved it too! It became a celebration of music, poetry, and colors in royal courts, symbolizing harmony across cultures. Even Sikhs celebrate Holi as Hola Mohalla, adding martial arts, music, and poetry into the mix and Kathak in Lucknow.

And across India, every region has its own twist, Lathmar Holi in Barsana, Basanta Utsav in Bengal, and temple rituals down South.

Your Ultimate Bollywood Holi Playlist

Now that you know a little more about Holi’s history, let’s set the mood with these 10 must-have Bollywood songs:

1. Rang Barse – Silsila

This song is basically the national anthem of Holi! Amitabh Bachchan’s voice, playful lyrics, and that iconic tune make it impossible to ignore. Sing this song with your friends and let the Holi madness begin!

2. Holi Khele Raghuveera – Baghban

Another Bachchan special, this one’s full of festive energy and family vibes. It’s the kind of song that makes everyone, even grandparents, want to dance! Sing along with your family and create a musical Holi moment!

3. Balam Pichkari – Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani

This song is youth energy at its best! Peppy beats, fun lyrics, and that carefree vibe make it a must-have on every Holi playlist. Learn to play this song on guitar or keyboard and impress your friends!

4. Do Me a Favour, Let’s Play Holi – Waqt

A total banger that screams fun and mischief. The perfect song for teasing your friends and having a dance-off! Join a dance session and learn the perfect moves for this song!

5. Jai Jai Shiv Shankar – War

A mix of spirituality and celebration, this song is all about letting loose and enjoying life. The beats will have you grooving in no time! Try singing this song or dance your heart out and feel the festive energy!

6. Holi Ke Din – Sholay

Nothing screams Bollywood nostalgia like this song! It captures everything Holi stands for—happiness, togetherness, and no worries in the world. Grab your ukulele and learn to play this classic tune!

7. Ang Se Ang Lagana – Darr

For a more romantic Holi vibe, this song is perfect. If you're looking for an excuse to get a little filmy with colors, this is your pick! Sing this song and dedicate it to someone special!

9. Badri Ki Dulhania – Badrinath Ki Dulhania

A total party anthem, this song is high on fun, dance, and full-on desi madness. Learn to dance on this song groove to this peppy Holi track!

9. Go Pagal – Jolly LLB 2

As the name suggests, this song is all about going wild! If you love fast beats and crazy dance moves, this one’s for you. Play this song on the keyboard or just dance madly and bring out the madness!

10. Gori Tu Latth Maar – Toilet: Ek Prem Katha

Inspired by Lathmar Holi, this song brings tradition and festivity together in a fun way. Learn to sing this song and celebrate Holi in a musical way!

Let Music Color Your Holi!

Holi is all about feeling free, dancing your heart out, and making memories. And what better way to do that than with the perfect playlist? So, which of these songs will be playing on repeat at your Holi party?

Celebrate Holi with Music. Celebrate Holi with Spardha School of Music!

HAPPY HOLI!