Seasonal Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Lohri
Lohri is a popular Punjabi winter folk festival celebrated on the night of January 13 — the eve of Makar Sankranti — marking the end of winter and the peak of the cold season (winter solstice by the traditional calendar). A large bonfire is lit in a community gathering, and families sing folk songs about Dulha Bhatti (a legendary Robin Hood-like Punjabi hero), toss sesame seeds, jaggery, popcorn, and puffed rice into the fire as offerings, and dance Bhangra and Giddha around it. The festival is especially celebrated for the birth of a son or the first Lohri after a wedding, when new families are specially honored.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
Marks the end of the winter solstice — after Lohri, days grow longer and warmer. It is the most joyful occasion for families welcoming a new baby (especially a son) or celebrating a first winter after marriage. The bonfire represents the warmth and light that vanquishes winter darkness.
Rituals & Traditions
Light a large communal bonfire at sunset. Circumambulate the bonfire while chanting "Aadar aye dilather jaye!" Toss sesame seeds (til), jaggery (gur), puffed rice (murmure), and rewri into the fire as offerings. Sing Lohri folk songs about Dulha Bhatti. Dance Bhangra and Giddha. Distribute rewri, peanuts, and popcorn.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Lohri?
Lohri is a popular Punjabi winter folk festival celebrated on the night of January 13 — the eve of Makar Sankranti — marking the end of winter and the peak of the cold season (winter solstice by the traditional calendar). A large bonfire is lit in a ...
Q.What is the significance of Lohri?
Marks the end of the winter solstice — after Lohri, days grow longer and warmer. It is the most joyful occasion for families welcoming a new baby (especially a son) or celebrating a first winter after marriage. The bonfire represents the warmth and light that vanquishes winter darkness.
Q.What are the rituals of Lohri?
Light a large communal bonfire at sunset. Circumambulate the bonfire while chanting "Aadar aye dilather jaye!" Toss sesame seeds (til), jaggery (gur), puffed rice (murmure), and rewri into the fire as offerings. Sing Lohri folk songs about Dulha Bhatti. Dance Bhangra and Giddha. Distribute rewri, peanuts, and popcorn.
Q.What foods are made during Lohri?
Rewri (sesame-jaggery brittle), Gajak (sesame-jaggery slab), Til ladoo, Peanuts, Popcorn (murmure), Makki di roti, Sarson da saag