Lohri is celebrated on the 13th of January every year with much fanfare in Northern India, especially in the regions of Punjab, Delhi, Jammu, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. It is ironic how a number which is often considered unlucky (13), so much so that hotel establishments usually skip it while numbering the floors, can be associated with something so auspicious. Lohri heralds the beginning of the harvest season for rabi crops like sugarcane. Traditionally, this festival was also used to signal an end to the biting cold winters before weather patterns became unpredictable due to Global Warming. For some people, Lohri is a way to honor the Sun God and the Fire God and pray for prosperity. While most of the northern part of the country looks forward to celebrating Lohri with a lot of zeal and enthusiasm, the celebrations reach a whole new level in Punjab. Some festivals cut across religions and Lohri is one such festival. Both Hindu and Sikh communities in Punjab celebrate Lohri with equal pomp and show. According to the folklore, this festival is also associated with Dulla Bhatti, a local hero in Punjab. It is believed that he saved many girls from being abducted and married them off honorably. One of the most popular songs sung during Lohri recounts his bravery and good deeds.
Lohri is typically celebrated by lighting a huge bonfire. It is said that the fire symbolizes the burning away of the old and the welcoming of new beginnings. This is especially true for newly married couples and newborn parents. Families who have witnessed marriage of their son or welcomed a baby boy in their home often throw lavish Lohri parties. A recent shift in the society has been about these celebrations getting extended to the families who welcome baby girls in their homes. It is heartwarming to see that slowly but surely, we are indeed breaking the ties of patriarchy. The bonfire has thus become a symbol of progress. People usually sing songs and dance around it. Many alternate between offering peanuts, popcorn, revdi, gachak (traditional sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery) to the Fire God and munching on them. A few adventurous souls go one step further and use the bonfire to fire cook potatoes. The slow roasted potatoes cooked in the dying embers of the bonfire taste heavenly.
In conclusion, it can be said that Lohri embodies unabashed joy and community spirit. Hope all readers of this article enjoyed reading about the beloved festival of Lohri. May you be blessed with health, happiness and prosperity!
