Princeton residents readily and passionately gathered at the basketball court at about 6 30pm on 13th January to celebrate Lohri. The president and other members of Residents Welfare Association were also present to mark the importance of the festival. Gradually some 150 residents joined the group emphasising the significance of the harvest festival.
The green Princeton was as usual lit beautifully. The lush green meadows, lined peripheral trees, the bright pathway, and multicoloured flowery plants looked as though we had come to a fairyland.
The bonfire was lit and it seemed that bitter winter submitted itself in front of enthusiastic participants. The beautiful dainty ladies danced around the bonfire with the mesmerising tune of the folklore played in the background. It was a striking, spectacular scenery, and seemed as though numerous buzzing butterflies with their colourful wings are dancing around the bonfire. It was a rare and enjoyable sight.
After honouring the flames, Prasad was offered to the fire God and mungfali and gajjak were distributed to mark the end of the festival.
Children enjoyed their part along with their parents and finally when the residents left for their homes, a glimpse of sadness was reflected on their faces as they have to wait for an year more for the next Lohri.
by Mythily Govindan (8448716764)
