Lohri: Punjabi harvest folk festival of bonfire
Lohri Mythology: How Lohri became a famous festival
The spring is coming and so are the winters running away. Along with this beautiful change in the climate let’s welcome the most entertaining and melodious festival of Lohri. Lohri is an auspicious Punjabi festival; which is celebrated on 13th January every year. This popular winter festival is celebrated in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Jammu. The main attraction of Lohri is a bonfire and Punjabi folk dance.
The importance and significance of Lohri Festival
The ancient significance of the festival is both as a winter crop season celebration and a remembrance of the Sun deity Surya. Lohri songs mention the Indian Sun god asking for heat and thanking him for his return. Another legend explains the celebration as a folk reverence for fire.
There’s an ancient story which links Lohri to the tale of Dulla Bhatti. The central theme of many Lohri songs is the legend of Dulla Bhatti, whose real name was Abdullah Bhatti and lived in Punjab during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. He was regarded as a hero in Punjab, for rescuing Punjabi girls from being forcibly taken to be sold in the slave market of the Middle East.[20][19] Amongst the were two girls he saved were Sundri & Mundri, who gradually became the theme of Punjab’ folklore. As a part of Lohri celebrations, children go around homes singing the traditional folk songs of Lohri with “Dulla Bhatti” name included. One person sings, while others end each line with a loud “Ho!” sung in unison. After the song ends, the adult of the home is expected to give snacks and money to the singing troupe of youngsters.
Regional Celebrations of Lohri
LOHRI is not just a Hindu traditional festival but for sure acts as a medium to build strong family bonding. This is a celebration in which all the family members and friends come together and get involved in entertainment. The traditional ways of entertainment somewhere deep in the system create love and affection. Lohri seems to be one of the most enjoyable festivals in certain states. The tradition and culture followed in these states are amazing and are a must watch. Let’s see how each of these Lohri fans takes the fest forward.
Originally published at rgyan.com.
Lohri is superbbb festival of Punjabis. Let's celebrate this festival by send lohri gifts online for your owns...
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