As we welcome the warmth of the bonfire and the spirited rhythms of dhol, it is that special time of year when we unite to rejoice in the lively festival of Lohri. Mr. Harbinder Singh Sethi warmly extends his heartfelt wishes, hoping this celebration brings joy to all.
From my heart to yours, I wish you all a Lohri that echoes with laughter, dances with happiness, and fills your lives with boundless prosperity.
I pray that this festival brings abundant harvests not just for your fields but also for your dreams and aspirations. May the flames remind us of the light within us all; may the rhythm of folk songs resonate with the blessings that surround you. Let us take a moment to appreciate the sweetness of rewri and gachak as we allow the simplicity of the season to realign us to what truly matters.
On this auspicious occasion, l encourage you to extend our hands towards those in need. Together, we can spread kindness like confetti showering upon everyone we cross paths with. Remember – it is in giving that we receive abundantly.
Let us remember, Lohri is a testament to our unity in diversity; each harvest, each song, each dance brings us closer as a community. Cherish those precious bonds we hold dear – family, friends, neighbors – they are truly our pillars of support. In these tough times, when the world seems distant at times, these connections provide solace like none other.
As we give thanks for winter’s harvest, may we carry the glow of Lohri in our hearts throughout the year. Stay safe and enjoy this beautiful festival.
– Harbinder Singh Sethi
Mr. Harbinger Singh Sethi explains the traditions of Lohri
The crackling of bonfires and popping of corn welcome the lively festival of Lohri. This winter crop celebration bursts with joyful traditions of song, dance, and community.
Lohri honours the Punjab region’s agricultural seasons. During the day, children go door to door singing Lohri songs and asking for sweets and savories as well as money. Newly married couples and parents of newborns receive special attention during these visits, as Lohri also celebrates fertility and the fruits of a good harvest. The collections the children receive, which include til, gachchak, crystal sugar, gur (jaggery), moongphali (peanuts) and phuliya or popcorn, are gathered as the “Lohri” and then distributed at night during the celebrations.
The festivities begin in the early evening when villagers gather around a large communal fire pit set in the town square. The bonfire’s golden glow lights up faces flushed from dancing and singing folk songs. People circle the fire, tossing in offerings of sesame seeds, sugar, peanuts, and popcorn.
The fire represents the sun and the coming of brighter days. Some circle around the fire as part of a prayer ritual. The fire burning through the night symbolizes the end of the winter darkness and cold.
The folklore of Lohri is linked to a legend about the Robinhood-like figure Dulla Bhatti who rescued girls from being forcibly trafficked. The tale represents good triumphing over evil – much like the victory of warmer, longer days over the cold darkness of winter. Lohri tunes often tell this story of bravery and chivalry.