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A popular agricultural festival, Lohri is celebrated extensively in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. The festival of Lohri holds special significance as it marks the beginning of the harvest season. It is an auspicious occasion for the people of Punjab. Lohri falls in mid January and according to the Hindu calendar it falls in the month of Pausha or Magha. It is a long awaited bonfire festival of the North India. The festival of Lohri is celebrated throughout the country under different names. However, they all carry the same message. On this day the sun enters the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) and hence, the day is held in high regard.
Interesting socio-cultural and folk –legends are connected with the festival of Lohri. The root of the Lohri festival can be traced back to the tales of Dulla Bhatti. He was a Muslim highway robber but, he rescued several Hindu girls who were forcibly sold in the Middle East. He assisted them in getting married to Hindu boys and also provided them with dowries. Over time he became the hero of Punjab even though he was a robber and people started associating Lohri to the tale of Dulla Bhatti.
Dulla Bhatti forms the central character of most of the Lohri songs today.
On the day of Lohri, children run from one house to another singing song in praise of Dulla Bhatti. In return they are offered sweets or money. They cannot be returned empty handed as it is regarded ominous. The collection that is gathered by the children is known as Lohri. With the setting of the sun, huge bonfires (parikrama) are lit either in the fields or on the front yard of the people’s house. People encircle the bonfire and throw puffed rice, popcorn and other munchies into the fire. They sing popular folk songs. The songs are dedicated to the fire God. It is a joyous time to meet friends, relatives and exchange greetings and gifts.
The traditional Bhangra and Gidda dances are performed round the bonfire and the celebration continues till late night.
Last Updated On: 2011/07/04
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