Lohri

 

 

 

The end of winter in India is a time of celebration, marked by the festival of Lohri on January 13 each year. This event, significant especially in Northern India, celebrates the harvest of the winter rabi crops and signifies the close of the winter solstice. It’s a joyful occasion that honors the sun and welcomes longer days ahead.

History of Lohri

Lohri is a cherished tradition in Northern India, closely associated with the Punjab region. It symbolizes the end of the winter solstice and the onset of longer days as the sun moves northward. The festival is predominantly celebrated in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu, making it one of the most beloved festivals in Northern India. Linked to various legends, Lohri is mostly celebrated a day before the Maghi festival, honoring the sun deity, Surya. It is a public holiday in Northern India, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims alike. In homes that recently experienced a marriage or the birth of a child, the festivities are particularly lively.

The festival’s historical roots are noted in accounts from European visitors to Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1832. Further records from 1836 mention Captain Mackeson distributing clothes and money as Lohri rewards. The tradition of lighting a huge bonfire to celebrate Lohri was documented in the royal court in 1844. Lohri is also tied to the folklore of Dulla Bhatti, a folk hero from Punjab who opposed Mughal rule during Emperor Akbar’s reign. Known for rescuing Hindu girls from being sold into slavery, Dulla Bhatti is celebrated in songs sung by children who visit homes asking for treats and money.

Lohri Timeline

• 1500s: Dulla Bhatti, the folk hero, is born in the mid-16th century and dies in 1599, leaving a legacy of activism.
• 1832: Europeans acknowledge Lohri while visiting Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
• 1836: Lohri gains recognition as Captain Mackeson rewards people with clothes and money.
• 1844: The royal court marks Lohri with a grand bonfire at night.

Lohri FAQs

Are Lohri and Makar Sankranti the same?

While both are harvest festivals, Lohri, celebrating rabi crop harvest, is observed a day before Makar Sankranti.

Is Lohri celebrated throughout India?

Lohri is primarily celebrated in Northern states like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, followed by other regional harvest festivals such as Pongal in South India and Makar Sankranti in the West.

Why do we light fires on Lohri?

According to Punjabi folklore, the bonfire flames carry messages and prayers to the sun god, seeking warmth and a good harvest in exchange for the end of cold, gloomy days.

How To Observe Lohri

Create a cozy fire: Join the Lohri festivities by lighting a sacred bonfire. Gather friends and family for a campfire or a small bonfire to celebrate the end of winter.

Sing Lohri songs: Singing is central to Lohri. Explore and practice Lohri songs to enhance your celebration.

Visit Indian friends or family: If you have Indian friends or relatives, visiting them would be a meaningful way to celebrate. If not, share greetings with an Indian neighbor or merchant.

5 Interesting Facts About Lohri

1. Marks a new financial year: Traditionally, revenue from winter crops was collected on Lohri.
2. Named after a goddess: Lohri is named after the Goddess Lohri, the sister of Holika.
3. Longest night of the year: Lohri has the year’s shortest day and longest night, heralding longer days ahead.
4. A harvest festival: After harvesting the winter crop rabi, communities gather to celebrate.
5. A Hindu religious festival: In Hinduism, Lohri honors the Goddess Lohri and the God Agni.

Why Lohri is Important

Signifies new beginnings: Lohri marks a fresh start, with Indians expressing gratitude to the sun god for abundant harvests.

Promotes unity: During Lohri, differences are set aside as people gather to sing and dance around bonfires, embracing togetherness.

A nod to activism: Lohri honors Dulla Bhatti, the Robin Hood of Punjab, highlighting activism and standing up for justice.

Lohri Dates

• 2025: January 13, Monday
• 2026: January 13, Tuesday
• 2027: January 13, Wednesday
• 2028: January 13, Thursday
• 2029: January 13, Saturday

For more cultural insights and information, visit findnomore.net.

What is the date of Lohri every year?