12 January,2024 07:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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As the winter chill envelops the Indian subcontinent, communities across the nation are coming together to celebrate the vibrant festival of Lohri 2024.
The auspicious occasion, marked by bonfires, folk music, and traditional dances, holds a special place in the hearts of people, especially in the northern regions of India.
Lohri is observed every year on January 13th. It is a festival that primarily symbolises the passing of the winter solstice. Families and friends gather around bonfires, offering prayers and expressing gratitude for a bountiful harvest and seeking blessings for a prosperous future.
In various parts of the country, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Himachal Pradesh, the festivities began in the evening with the lighting of the ceremonial bonfire. The warmth of the flames not only provides physical comfort but also serves as a symbol of the collective spirit of the community.
Women dressed in colorful traditional attire performed the Gidda and the men engaged in the energetic and rhythmic Bhangra, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and exuberance. The beats of the dhol resonated through the air, infusing the celebrations with an infectious energy that had young and old alike tapping their feet.
Delicious traditional dishes, especially revadi, gajak, sesame seeds, and jaggery, were shared among families and neighbors. The exchange of these sweet treats signifies the sweetness and warmth of relationships, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie.
In urban areas, Lohri celebrations took on a modern twist, with families organizing events that blended traditional rituals with contemporary festivities. Residents in cities lit up their homes with diyas and fairy lights, creating a festive ambiance.
