The first celebration of the new year, Lohri, is a well-liked harvest festival that is enthusiastically observed throughout Punjab and in some areas of Punjab , Jammu, and Delhi.
According to experts, the celebration ushers in the New Year, which falls on January 13 each year and is mainly observed by Sikhs and Hindus nationally and internationally.
In Punjab, a festival called Lohri, also called Lohadi or Lal Loi, ushers in the harvest season. The renowned Hindu holiday of Lohri, which happens on January 13 every year, precedes Makar Sankranti, which takes place between January 14 and 15. The winter months are over, and the longer days begin with Lohri. To mark the sun’s arrival in the northern hemisphere, Lohri is observed. However, it has historically been connected to harvesting rabi crops.
Background of Lohri
The narrative of Dulla Bhatti, who lived in Punjab during the rule of Mughal Emperor Akbar, is the folklore most frequently connected to Lohri. He used to support the underprivileged and those in need while robbing the rich. He reportedly freed a girl from kidnappers and raised her as his daughter. He even carried out the rites at her wedding, as no priest was present. People began to sing the folk song “Sundar-Mundriye” every year on the occasion of Lohri because they loved and admired him, and because of this.
Lohri’s importance
According to scientists, after Lohri, the sun’s journey northward ends. The nights get shorter, and the days get longer after Makar Sankranti, the day following this celebration. In essence, the bonfire serves as a symbol of the festival’s celebration of the coming of warmer weather. Numerous individuals, primarily farmers, begin harvesting the crop of the day. To feel the sun’s warmth during the frigid winter days, people also recite several ancient mantras on this day. Family members make their first Lohri unique because the holiday is significant for newlyweds and newborns. Together, they offer a health and wealth prayer.
Date and time of Lohri in 2023: January 14, 2023, is Lohri Day.
The Lohri Sankranti Moment is to be experienced on January 14, 2023, at 8:57.
Following the Drik Panchang, the Lohri festival will be observed on January 14 this year, and Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on January 15, 2023.
What are the Lohri customs?
Puffed rice, jaggery, sesame seeds, popcorn, and coconut are offered in the fire as part of the festival, which also comprises parikrama of the bonfire and prayers to the Almighty for a prosperous New Year. People dance and sing traditional music on this auspicious occasion, particularly bhangra and gidda.
On Lohri, what do people eat?
All things warm and wholesome are on the holy feast meal. The menu is extensive and complete, with items like
- Makki Di Roti
- Sarso Da Saag joining Gajak
- Rewari
- Til Laddoo
- Peanut Chikki
- Gajak