It’s that time of year when winter is at its peak, and the only way to get some warmth in the evening is by sitting by the bonfire amid fun conversations with your near and dear ones. Lohri, the popular North Indian festival, celebrates the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. Every year, it is celebrated a day before Makar Sankranti – usually on January 13 – with much fanfare, especially by the people of Punjab, during the month of Paush. Other parts of the country such as Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu celebrate the festival with much enthusiasm.
Lohri is celebrated this year on January 13 (Friday). In a Lohri thaal, which is usually adorned with the fresh harvest, you would typically find gajak, revdi, popcorns, puffed rice, and other traditional delicacies made of til (sesame seeds), celebrating the harvest of the rabi crop in North India. The word Lohri is believed to have originated from the word loh, which is referred to as tawa that’s used to prepare roti or chapati, according to legend.
Traditions and celebrations of Lohri:-
Much-awaited traditions abound during Lohri, a fun-filled time of year. Some popular Lohri rituals include singing folk songs, dancing to the tunes of dhol, performing bhangra, gidda, and chajja, relishing makki ki roti and sarson ka saag, and munching gajak, moongfali, tilkut, puffed rice, revdi and popcorn by the bonfire.
History and significance of Lohri:-
The story of Dulha Bhatti and two Punjabi girls Sundari Mundari is associated with the festival and is narrated by elders of the house. Dulha Bhatti’s legend dates back to the 16th century during the reign of the Mughal emperor Akbar. He was a dacoit who used to rob the rich and help the poor with money and food.
It is said that he was a brave warrior who helped common people and became very popular in Punjab. The festival of Lohri is commemorated for Dulha Bhatti’s bravery in resisting the tyranny of the Mughal rulers. During Lohri festivities, bonfires are lit, sweets are exchanged, and traditional Punjabi folk songs and dances are performed in honor of Dulha Bhatti.
