The centuries-old festival of ‘Joota Maar Holi’ in Shahjahanpur is set to be celebrated this year under heightened security in Shahjahanpur of Uttarpradesh, with authorities taking extensive measures to ensure the event remains safe and peaceful. As part of these precautions, 48 mosques and shrines along the procession route have been covered with thick tarpaulins to prevent any untoward incidents.
Superintendent of Police Rajesh Dwivedi stated that this year’s security arrangements are one-and-a-half times stricter than last year. The city will see deployment of four additional Police Superintendents, 13 Circle Officers, 310 Sub-Inspectors, 1,200 Constables, and 500 Home Guards. In addition, four companies each of PAC and RAF, along with a team from NDRF, will remain active along the procession route.
The eight-kilometre-long procession route has been divided into seven zones, with 136 magistrates posted for oversight. Over 100 solar-powered CCTV cameras have been installed, and 148 roads have been barricaded to enhance security. Authorities have also taken preventive action against individuals identified as potential troublemakers.
During the ‘Joota Maar Holi’ tradition, a person is placed on a buffalo cart representing the British-era officer known as ‘Lat Sahib.’ Participants throw shoes and slippers at the figure, play with colors, and chant slogans. Historian Dr. Vikas Khurana told media that the tradition began in 1728 when Nawab Abdullah Khan returned to Shahjahanpur on Holi, with both Hindu and Muslim communities celebrating together.
The British administration later formalized the custom, and in 1988 it was renamed ‘Lat Sahib.’ A 1990 petition in the High Court seeking to ban the tradition was dismissed, recognizing it as an established and culturally significant practice.
Police have appealed to citizens to celebrate Holi peacefully. SP Dwivedi warned that any form of disorder will not be tolerated and strict action will be taken against violators.
With stringent monitoring, magistrate deployment, and modern CCTV surveillance, Shahjahanpur’s unique Holi tradition is expected to take place this year with both enthusiasm and harmony.
