Punjab
Fun and Enjoyment
Lohri is the folk festival of Punjab and is celebrated by the Sikhs and Hindus of the Punjab region. The word ‘Lohri’ originates from the regional word ‘loh,’ which means the warmth and light of the fire. On Lohri day, delicious meals are cooked that include the traditional Lohri food ‘Sarson ka saag’ and ‘Makki is roti’ in the main course and kheer atta laddu along with several other dishes as the desserts. Til Ladoo and other foods to the fire, sharing them with their family and friends.
It is not limited to Punjab or the northern parts but also spreads happiness in big metro cities like New Delhi. Lohri has the shortest day and longest night, after which every day gets longer.
According to mythological tales, Lohri was considered Holika’s sister who, when put on fire with Prahlad and Holika, survived while Holika got burnt in the fire. In ancient times, humans lit fires to keep carnivores away and protect their habitats. Everyone in the community would contribute to the fire for which young boys and girls collect firewood from the jungle to burn. The Lohri bonfire is considered an old symbol of protecting oneself with the community, and it is also considered a form of worship. The Lohri fire is pious.
Lohri in India is the folk festival of Punjab and is celebrated by the Sikhs and Hindus of the Punjab region. The word ‘Lohri’ originates from the regional word ‘loh,’ which means the warmth and light of the fire. Everyone in the community would contribute to the fire for which young boys and girls collect firewood from the jungle to burn. The Lohri bonfire is considered an old symbol of protecting oneself with the community, and it is also considered a form of worship. The Lohri fire is pious.
Lohri in India is celebrated by lighting bonfires, eating festive food, dancing, and collecting gifts. In houses that have recently had a marriage or childbirth, Lohri celebrations will reach a higher pitch of excitement. Most North Indians usually have private Lohri celebrations in their houses. Lohri rituals are performed with the accompaniment of special Lohri songs. People wear their brightest clothes and come to dance the bhangra and gidda to the beat of the dhol. Punjabi songs are sung, and everybody rejoices.
The name of the festival has many variations and possible origins. It is said to be the name of the Goddess Lohri, the sister of Holika, who is celebrated on Holi.
Lohri is a cultural harvest festival.
Foods like jaggery, gajak, and til ki chikki are offered to the fire to pay gratitude to nature on the occasion of Lohri.
It is believed that offering food items to the God of Fire on this day helps remove all negativity from life and brings prosperity. Here, the bonfire symbolizes Lord Agni.