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KarmaVaani

Festival · January

Lohri

A winter bonfire in Punjab on the eve of Makar Sankranti.

A crackling winter bonfire at night with a basket of popcorn, peanuts and rewri in the foreground

Lohri is kept on the night before Makar Sankranti, above all in Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Families and neighbours gather around a bonfire, toss sesame, jaggery, peanuts and popcorn into the flames, sing folk songs and dance. The first Lohri of a newborn or a newly married couple is celebrated with special joy.

Why it is kept

It marks the end of the coldest days and gives thanks for the rabi crop.

Step by step

How to observe it

  1. Light the bonfire

    At dusk, family and neighbours gather and circle the fire.

  2. Offer to the fire

    Sesame, jaggery sweets, peanuts and popcorn are offered and then shared.

Customs differ between regions, communities and families. Where your family or temple has its own way, follow it.

Fasting

Fasting

Not a fasting day.

Fasts should suit your health. Children, elders, pregnant women and anyone unwell or on medication should eat, or keep a lighter fast; that is the tradition, not an exception to it.

Traditions

  • Bonfire
  • Offering til, rewri and peanuts to the fire
  • Folk songs and bhangra