Producer: Peuli Bakshi
Lohri is a harvest festival celebrated in the northern regions of India, marking the end of winter festivities.
Lohri is linked to the winter solstice, the shortest day. After Lohri, the days start getting longer, symbolizing the return of warmth.
Lighting a bonfire is a central aspect of Lohri. People sing traditional songs, and throw offerings like sesame seeds, jaggery and popcorn into the flames.
The first Lohri holds special significance for newlyweds and newborns.
The tradition of distributing sesame seeds and jaggery during Lohri symbolizes warmth and sweetness.
It is said to be the name of the Goddess Lohri, the sister of Holika, who is celebrated on Holi.
People perform traditional dance forms like bhangra and gidha around the bonfire, reflecting the joy associated with the harvest season.
The bonfire is believed to be a homage to the sun for bringing in warmth and longer days.
There are various historical legends, like the 'Dulla Bhatti legend', associated with Lohri.
Lohri is a community celebration, where people come together to share joy, warmth and the harvest's abundance.