Lohri

Lohri is a Punjabi winter harvest festival celebrated with bonfires, marking the winter solstice.

Overview

Lohri is celebrated on January 13th (the eve of Makar Sankranti) in Punjab and neighboring regions. It marks the end of winter and the harvesting of the rabi (winter) crops. The festival is associated with the worship of fire, the sun, and the agricultural deities. It is particularly significant for newlyweds and newborn children.

Method/Content

The celebration centers around a large bonfire (lohri) around which people gather to sing traditional songs, throw offerings of popcorn, peanuts, and rewari into the fire, and perform bhangra dancing. Special foods like sarson ka saag and makki ki roti are prepared. The festival includes the exchange of gifts, visiting relatives, and specific rituals for newlyweds and newborns. Children go door-to-door singing traditional songs and collecting treats.

Purpose/Benefits

Lohri is celebrated to thank the Sun God and the Fire God for their blessings, to celebrate the harvest, and to pray for prosperity in the coming year. The festival is believed to bring warmth, happiness, and good fortune. The tradition holds that the bonfire purifies the environment and attracts positive energies.

Verification Notes

• Celebrated on January 13th (Makar Sankranti eve)
• Major festival in Punjab and Haryana
• Associated with harvest, fire worship, and community celebration