'Lat Sahab' procession passes peacefully; Holi revellers soak in colours, culture

SHAHJAHANPUR (UP): (Mar 4) The traditional 'Lat Sahab' procession here on the occasion of Holi was held under tight security on Wednesday, with revellers chanting slogans and symbolically striking the 'Lat Sahab' with shoes as part of the customs.

This procession in Shahjahanpur is a centuries-old Holi tradition where a man representing a figure of authority, a colonial-era British officer ('Lat Sahab'), is paraded through the town on a bullock cart, while revellers chant slogans and strike him with shoes in a symbolic act of mischief.

The unique custom, rooted in local history and communal participation, is conducted under administrative supervision and is regarded as a blend of satire, festivity and heritage.