Oo ji, Lo aa gayi Lohri ve!!! The harvest festival of Punjab is around the corner and everyone is all set to get ready for the festivities. Preparation including getting the bonfire ready to planning a delicious feast, get started way before the actual festival. The festival which is popular among Hindus and Sikhs is celebrated mostly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and the union territory of Jammu. Lohri is always celebrated on the 13th day of the month of Paush or Magh, which fall during the winter solstice. This year it will be celebrated on January 13 to mark the end of the winter season and the beginning of the harvest season. It is surely a time to gather with family and friends but it is also vital to remember our rich traditions. Therefore, here are five important traditions of Lohri that one should know about. 

• Bonfire

The combination of winter and bonfire is an inseparable one. However, bonfires are also the main attraction of Lohri. People gather around it, rejoice on music and dance while also offering prayers for a prosperous harvest season. As an offering to the divine people also throw sesame seeds, popcorn and other grains into the fire. 

• Prasad

For ages, Prasad, a traditional offering made to the gods has held strong significance. The special Lohri prasad comprises sweets and savouries like gajak, til laddoo and rewri. Firstly, the prasad is offered to the divine and then later on it is shared with family and friends. 

• Gift exchange

At the festival, people exchange gifts like clothes, sweets and money as a form to express love and gratitude to family and friends.

• Kite flying

One of the most popular Lohri traditions is kite flying. People gather on rooftops and fly kits made out of diffraction patterns, sizes and colours. It is commonly believed that flying kites bring good luck and prosperity. 

• Folk dances and songs

Honestly, we cannot recall any Indian festival where songs and dances were not present. Similarly, folk songs and dances are an integral part of Lohri. People enjoy singing and dancing on a plethora of famous songs. 

So, ladies and gentlemen what are you all waiting for? Get your patiala suits and sherwanis ready and enjoy Lohri 2023 to the fullest.

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