Happy Lohri: Know origin and traditions behind the festival's name

Lohri, a vibrant Punjabi folk festival, marks the beginning of the year with celebrations held annually in January. Widely observed as a harvest festival, particularly in North India, it holds a special place in the hearts of Sikh families and newlyweds alike. This joyous festivity resonates across Sikh households, extending its cultural embrace to regions such as Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. One intriguing aspect that often piques curiosity is the origin of the festival's name. Let's delve into the etymology of Lohri and explore the reasons behind its annual celebration.

The Etymology of Lohri

The term "Lohri" finds its roots in the amalgamation of two Punjabi words - 'Til' meaning sesame and 'Rorahi' meaning jaggery. Consequently, the festival was initially referred to as 'Tilohri.' Over time, linguistic evolution led to the transformation of 'Tilohri' into the more familiar 'Lohri.' In various regions, this primary festival of Punjab is still known as 'Loi.' The significance of Lohri revolves around the offering of food items like jaggery, gajak, and sesame seeds to the God of Fire.

The Harvest Celebration

Lohri holds particular significance for farmers as it coincides with the flourishing of crops in the fields. It serves as a jubilant harvest festival, symbolizing the bountiful yield of crops like sugarcane, groundnut, and radish. The tradition of lighting a fire during this cold season prevails, with offerings of sesame, peanuts, maize, and other agricultural produce to honor the harvest.

The Ritual of Lohri Fire Puja

A focal point of the Lohri festivities is the ceremonial fire, aptly named "Lohri," lit during the night. Families and communities gather around this fire, offering sweets made of sesame and jaggery to Agnidev, the God of Fire. This communal act is followed by lively performances of Bhangra and Giddha, traditional dances set to the beat of drums, as people come together to extend warm wishes and celebrate the occasion.

Lohri Rituals and Traditions

Lohri is accompanied by the singing of special traditional songs, heartfelt embraces, and congratulations exchanged among friends and family. The festivities hold particular significance for new daughters-in-law, adding an extra layer of warmth to the celebrations. An integral part of Lohri is the retelling of the story of Dulla Bhatti, without which the ritual is considered incomplete.

In essence, Lohri encapsulates a blend of cultural richness, agricultural jubilation, and communal camaraderie, making it a cherished festival that brings people together in the spirit of joy and gratitude.