An important harvest festival in Punjab and Haryana, Lohri celebrates the conclusion of the winter solstice and the start of fresh beginnings. At this time of year, as the sun starts its northward trek, people celebrate the arrival of warmer days and give thanks to Lord Surya and mother nature for their wealth and prosperity. Every year, Lohri is observed on January 14 rather than January 13, as it usually falls on the latter day. This year, Lohri is being observed on January 14. Lighting a bonfire and participating in storytelling, dancing, and singing are customs. Through captivating narratives and folk melodies, the legend of Dulha Bhatti and Sundari Mundari is remembered, and thanks is conveyed towards the heroic character of Punjab.
Known for his valiant deeds such as robbing the wealthy and giving to the underprivileged, as well as preventing Punjabi girls from being sold into slavery, Dulla Bhatti was a significant historical figure from Punjab who rose to fame during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar. It is a chance to engage with people and communities and celebrate Lohri. People sit around bonfires and make merry till late in the evening while savoring festival-special dishes like Sarson ka saag and makki ki roti, gajak and rewri, moongfali, Dahi bhalle, among many more.
It appears that there is some confusion this year regarding the exact day of Lohri celebrations, with some suggesting that January 13 or January 14 should be commemorated. According to Drik Panchang, Sunday, January 14, 2024 is the planned date for Lohri celebrations. This suggests that Monday, January 15, 2024, is when the associated festival of Makar Sankranti is anticipated to take place.
In addition to worshiping the new crop, lighting bonfires outside of their homes, and making wishes for a plentiful harvest the following year, people celebrate Lohri by offering prayers to the Sun God (Surya Devta) and Fire God (Agni Devta). They also provide bhog (made from harvested crops), rewadi, groundnut, jaggery, gajak, and peanuts to the Lohri bonfire. During the Lohri celebrations, individuals also play traditional songs and dance to the beat of the dhol while encircling the fire (Parikrama).
