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IIE Digital Desk: The festival of Lohri is celebrated with great enthusiasm in India, especially in the North. Lohri is not only celebrated in India but also by Punjabi communities around the world. It is a time for joy, community bonding, and expressing gratitude for the harvest. The festival holds cultural significance, reflecting the rich agricultural traditions of the region. This year it is being celebrated on 14th January.

Significance of Lohri:

Lohri is a popular winter folk festival celebrated primarily in the northern regions of India, especially in the state of Punjab. It marks the end of the winter solstice and holds cultural and social significance, and it is often associated with the harvest season. It celebrates the bounty of the winter harvest and symbolizes prosperity and fertility.

Lighting a bonfire is a central part of Lohri celebrations. People gather around the bonfire, throw sesame seeds (til), sugarcane, jaggery, and other offerings into it, and perform traditional dances and sing folk songs.

Some other important elements of Lohri:

Singing and Dancing: Lohri is celebrated with traditional music and dance, particularly the energetic and lively Bhangra and gidda dances.

Feasting: Like many festivals, Lohri involves feasting on traditional Punjabi dishes. People prepare and share special foods such as sarson da saag (mustard greens) and makki di roti (cornbread).

Exchange of Gifts: It is common for people to exchange gifts, sweets, and other festive items during Lohri. This is a way of expressing good wishes and strengthening social bonds.