On 13th January 2024, GK-2 Welfare Association celebrated Lohri at Tikona Park. The program was sponsored by the Ministry of Culture (Govt of India) and Modern Stage Service. Nearly 40 artists performed on the stage with Bhangra, Giddha, Punjabi and Bollywood songs. A special team of about 18 artists of Punjab Police gave an enthralling performance. They had specially come from Patiala to join us in this festival.
The program started with lively music played by the Punjab Police Cultural troupe, which set the gathering in a festive mood. The occasion is popular across the country and is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm all over and has a special significance as a victory of good over evil. It also marks the commencement of the New Year according to Hindu calendar and fosters unity among the community members.
‘Challia ‘ was the first song sung by an artist which epitomizes Punjabi folklore. It has been popularly sung by Gurdas Mann. Then came `Chan kithan Guzari Ayye Raat Ve` another Punjabi folklore that tells the story of a lover searching for his beloved. Surinder Kaur has sung this song beautifully. This was followed by `Dil dena Dil lena Hai Sauda khara khara`.
Since the troupe was specifically invited to be a part of our Lohri celebrations, it emphasized on a feeling of brotherhood, cooperation and bonhomie among all to enjoy such occasions. It also propagated the importance of Girl child by singing `Pyaari Pyaari Dhiyan Di Lohri`.
K R Mangalam school also came forward to be a part of the evening fun and frolic. The students performed Giddah in the traditional Punjabi attire. The need of the hour is that the entire community should come together to participate in such festivities. Since schools are a part of the community, the children are always welcomed to show their talent and get familiar with our traditional culture. These occasions afford us the opportunity to realize that religion is nothing but humanism in its best values of togetherness, compassion and camaraderie. Finally `Bhakti Mein Nachun Ram Ram` was again a beautiful rendition. Last but not the least, the Lohri bonfire was lit by our MLA Shri Saurabh Bharadwaj to symbolize the end of all evil and negative feelings towards each other and praying for a happy and blissful life for the whole world.
Sanatan Dharam Mandir, Arya Samaj Mandir, Nanaksar Gurudwara and Brahma Kumaris Meditation Centre were at their best to serve Prasada with Bedmi puri aloo, Chole chawal and Meethi Sewaiyan to serve people attending the function. Their effort is commendable. Congratulations to GK 2 Welfare Association for making this event a grand success.
