by Akiti
It’s January 13th, the bonfire is blazing, the dhol is playing, and the people are dancing. This is Lohri. Most people have never heard of this festival because it is niche to the North Indian state of Punjab (parts of which are in Pakistan), but also widely celebrated in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Delhi. It is the most anticipated festival in Punjab as it celebrates the beginning of the harvest for this agricultural state of India and symbolizes new beginnings & prosperity. The festival is considered to be extra special for newly weds and newborns as an auspicious beginning to their new journey ahead.
Astrologically,
Lohri signifies the end of the winter solstice, meaning the end of the cold winter and, hopefully, the beginning of warmer and longer days. The warmth and light expected to come with this climate is optimal for harvesting, hence the celebration for the beginning of the harvest season.
Spiritually,
Lohri is celebrated by both Hindus and Sikhs and is intended to honor both Surya and Agni, the Sun God and the Fire God respectively, so that the harvest may be blessed.
Traditionally,
Lohri is celebrated with a bonfire which the community will sing & dance around while offering makhana, rewari, gajak, and other items as symbols of warmth, prosperity, and abundance. Punjabi folk music is played with a dhol and boliyan while the community dances in traditional bhangra or giddha. Traditional Punjabi clothes are usually worn and are typically vibrant colors, especially for Lohri, to signify the warmth and light that is being celebrated.
Happy Lohri!
May the festival of Lohri bring
light, laughter, and abundance
to your home!
