Lohri is one of the most celebrated
harvest festival in Punjab. Celebrated on 13th January every year, it is
a time for people to thank God for his benevolence and for a bountiful
harvest in the coming season. The Rabi crops are sown in October and
harvested in the month of March or April. Hence, the month of January
witnesses celebration to mark the rest period just before the cutting of
the crops. It is a time for communion celebration.
The festival is celebrated with immense gay and pleasure, Bhangra and
Gidda (folk dances of Punjab) are performed everywhere. Bonfires,
dancing, community dinners are a common sight during the celebration.
Lighting bonfire is symbolic of prayers offered to Agni for bountiful
crops and prosperity. The day is marked with thorough merry making and
joy among people. Lohri is much more than a festival, it is a way of
life for people in the state of Punjab.
