In 2025, Lohri will be celebrated on Monday, January 13. According to Drik Panchang, the significant timings are:
- Lohri Sankranti Moment: 09:03 AM on January 14
- Makar Sankranti: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Lohri marks the end of winter and the beginning of longer, sunnier days, coinciding with Makar Sankranti the following day.
The Historical Roots Of Lohri
Lohri, deeply rooted in folklore and family traditions, has been celebrated for decades as a harvest festival. Traditionally significant for families reliant on agriculture, Lohri represents a time of gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
The festival is also connected to the worship of fire, a symbol of warmth and prosperity. After Lohri, the harsh winter subsides, giving way to longer days, making it a time of celebration and new beginnings.
The Significance Of Lohri
Lohri is particularly meaningful for farmers, as it marks the harvesting season for rabi crops like wheat, sugarcane, and mustard. It also symbolizes the end of the sowing season and the start of a new agricultural cycle.
Also Read: ‘No-Makeup’ Makeup Look; Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes for a Natural, Polished Look
Beyond agriculture, the festival brings communities together to express gratitude to nature and seek blessings for prosperity and fertility. For many, it serves as a reminder of the importance of family and communal harmony.
The Story Of Dulla Bhatti: Lohri’s Legendary Hero
A key tale associated with Lohri is about Dulla Bhatti, often referred to as the Robin Hood of Punjab. A Muslim Rajput who lived during Emperor Akbar’s reign, Dulla Bhatti rebelled against oppressive Mughal practices.
According to folklore, he rescued two girls from being sold into slavery, arranged their marriages, and took on the role of their guardian. To this day, his bravery is celebrated in the iconic Lohri folk song Sunder Mundriye.
Modern-Day Lohri Celebrations
Lohri today remains a grand and vibrant affair. The evening centers around a bonfire, with people gathering to sing folk songs, perform traditional dances like bhangra and giddha, and share festive foods.
Offerings like sesame seeds, jaggery, popcorn, and peanuts are thrown into the fire as a gesture of gratitude. Special foods such as makki ki roti, sarson ka saag, til laddoos, gajjak, and revri are prepared for the occasion.
Lohri holds special significance for families with newborns and newlyweds. The first Lohri for a baby or a married couple is celebrated with elaborate rituals, blessings, and gatherings. Special prayers are offered, and the families seek prosperity, health, and happiness for the new additions.
A Festival Of Togetherness
In today’s fast-paced world, Lohri offers a chance to reconnect with family, friends, and neighbors. It’s a time to cherish traditions, express gratitude, and welcome warmth and positivity into life.
Whether you’re lighting a bonfire, sharing food, or performing traditional dances, Lohri continues to embody the spirit of community, celebration, and new beginnings.
Also Read: ‘No-Makeup’ Makeup Look; Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes for a Natural, Polished Look
