Lohri is mainly celebrated by the Hindu and Sikh communities in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh. It is observed a day before Makar Sankranti. This year Lohri will be celebrated on January 13.
Also called 'Lohadi' or 'Lal Loi', the day commemorates the beginning of a new harvesting season and the ripening of winter crops.
People celebrate Lohri by lighting a holy bonfire and offering prayers and food to it. At several places, people get together with their family and friends and enjoy traditional folk music and dance.
Lohri - History
Lohri is associated with the sowing and harvesting of crops and marks the onset of warmer weather as the days get longer compared to nights after Makar Sankranti. On this day, the new crop is worshipped by the people.
People offer prayers to the Sun (Surya Devta) and Fire (Agni Devta) and express their gratitude for a good harvest season.
To worship the new crop, people light a fire outside their homes and hope for a rich harvest season. As per rituals, people offer 'bhog' to 'Agni Devta' and do 'Parikrama' around the fire.
Lohri - Significance
Like Makar Sankranti, Lohri is also a major festival celebrated with great pomp in North India. It is considered auspicious for the newlyweds and newborns as families celebrate their first Lohri.
On this day, people greet each other and wear new dresses. At various places, people come together and sing special Lohri songs and folklore. They offer peanuts, gajjak, popcorn, and rewari to each other to offer to the Agni Devta.
Folklore of Dulla Bhatti
One of the well-known folklore connected with the festival of Lohri is the story of Dulla Bhatti, who lived in Punjab during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
Check out our in-depth Market Coverage, Business News & get real-time Stock Market Updates on CNBC-TV18. Also, Watch our channels CNBC-TV18, CNBC Awaaz and CNBC Bajar Live on-the-go!
Stampede-like situation disrupts Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav's joint rally in Uttar Pradesh
May 19, 2024 4:26 PM
Ladakh Lok Sabha election: With Independent candidate's entry, it's now a 3-way contest for BJP and Congress
May 19, 2024 4:01 PM