Lohri is a vibrant festival celebrated primarily in Punjab and Haryana, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. Typically observed on January 13th, Lohri holds immense cultural significance and is synonymous with warmth, joy and community spirit.

Lohri is deeply rooted in agrarian traditions and is primarily associated with the harvest of sugarcane. The festival celebrates the arrival of longer days and the transition of the sun towards the northern hemisphere, symbolizing new beginnings and the end of the cold season.

The festival is also linked to various folk tales, the most popular being that of Dulla Bhatti, a Robin Hood-like figure who is said to have rescued young girls from the clutches of a tyrant. His legacy is celebrated during Lohri through songs and folk dances, reinforcing the festival’s spirit of community and resilience.

Lohri is celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervor and its customs may vary across regions, but the essence remains the same: community bonding, joy and gratitude for the harvest.

1. Bonfire Rituals: Central to Lohri celebrations is the lighting of a bonfire, symbolizing the warmth of the sun and the end of winter. Families and friends gather around the fire, throw in offerings like sesame seeds, sugarcane and popcorn, while singing traditional songs and dancing the Bhangra and Gidda.
2. Traditional Foods: Lohri is a time for indulging in traditional delicacies. People prepare and enjoy dishes such as til (sesame) ladoos, rewri (sweet made from sesame and jaggery) and gajak (crispy sweet made from sesame seeds). These foods not only add to the festive spirit but also signify the importance of the season’s harvest.
3. Cultural Performances: The night of Lohri is often filled with folk songs and dances. Traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda are performed, displaying the rich cultural heritage of Punjab. People dress in vibrant traditional attire, adding to the festive atmosphere.
4. Community Gatherings: Lohri is a festival that brings communities together. Neighbours and friends visit each other’s homes, share food and celebrate the spirit of togetherness. It is common for families to host Lohri parties, where everyone is invited to partake in the festivities.
5. Celebrating New Beginnings: For many, Lohri also marks new beginnings. Newly married couples and families with new-borns often celebrate this festival with particular enthusiasm, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.

Lohri is more than just a harvest festival; it embodies the spirit of community, joy and cultural pride. As families and friends gather around bonfires, they not only celebrate the bounty of the land but also reinforce bonds of love and togetherness. This vibrant festival serves as a reminder of the deep connections between people, nature and tradition, making it a cherished occasion in the hearts of many. Whether through the warmth of the bonfire, the rhythm of traditional dances, or the sweetness of festive treats, Lohri is a celebration that ignites joy and gratitude in every participant.

By: Ms. Harpreet Kaur (Officer – Amritsar)