Lohri is a fun and colorful festival celebrated in North India, especially in Punjab. It happens every year on January 13th and marks the end of cold winter days. Let’s learn about why Lohri is special and how people celebrate it!
Long ago, farmers in Punjab started celebrating Lohri to thank the sun god for giving warmth and helping their crops grow. They would gather after harvesting winter crops like mustard and sesame. This is why Lohri is called a harvest festival.
The most exciting part of Lohri is the big bonfire. Imagine standing around a warm, crackling fire on a chilly evening. You can smell the woody smoke and feel the heat on your face. People throw peanuts, sesame seeds, and a sweet called gur (jaggery) into the fire. As they do this, they sing happy songs and ask for good luck in the coming year.
The air is filled with the sound of drums and lively music. People dance the Bhangra and Gidda, traditional Punjabi dances. Their colorful clothes swirl as they move to the beat. Children run around, their faces glowing in the firelight, excited to get sweets and peanuts.
Lohri is also about yummy food! Families make special dishes like makki di roti (a type of bread made from corn) and sarson da saag (a dish made from mustard leaves). There are also sweet treats like gajak and rewri, which are made from sesame seeds and jaggery. The smell of these delicious foods fills the air, making everyone’s mouth water.
For newlywed couples and new parents, their first Lohri is extra special. It’s like a big welcome party for them, with lots of blessings and good wishes from family and friends.
Lohri teaches us important things too. It shows how coming together as a community is important. People share food, sing, and dance together, which helps build strong friendships. The festival also reminds us to be thankful for what nature gives us.
Today, even in big cities, people celebrate Lohri. They might not have farms, but they still light bonfires in their neighborhoods and have parties. Schools often have special programs where students learn about Lohri through songs, dances, and plays.
Lohri is more than just a day of fun. It’s a way to remember our roots and celebrate the change of seasons. It brings families and friends closer and passes on old traditions to young people.
In conclusion, Lohri is a festival full of joy, warmth, and togetherness. It reminds us of the importance of nature, community, and tradition. Whether you’re in a village or a big city, Lohri brings a smile to everyone’s face and warmth to their hearts.