Lohri, celebrated in January every year in Punjab and neighbouring states, is a festival that brings warmth and joy as winter ends. It's a special time for the farming community, marking the close of the winter sowing season and anticipating a good harvest. It is a festival deeply rooted in the traditions of Punjab, where the winter crop's wheat is sown, and by Lohri, it ripens, symbolizing the impending harvest. Celebrated a day before Makar Sankranti, Lohri embraces the transition from longer nights to warmer days.
Lohri 2024 Correct Date And Timings:
Lohri on Sunday, January 14, 2024
Lohri Sankranti Moment - 02:54 AM, Jan 15
Makar Sankranti on Monday, January 15, 2024
(Source: drikpanchang.com)
Lohri 2024: How We Celebrate Lohri: Rituals And Traditions
Lohri is a celebration of agricultural prosperity, with prayers offered to the Sun god (Surya devta) and Fire God (agni) for a fruitful harvest in the upcoming season. People light bonfires, offer snacks like sesame bites, peanuts, and gajak to the fire, and enjoy dancing and singing around the flames. It's a time for families and communities to come together.
Also Read: When Is Makar Sankranti 2024: Date, Time, Rituals And 5 Traditional Foods For Festive Feast
Lohri festival is celebrated with winter-special food.
Photo Credit: iStock
Lohri 2024: Traditional Foods for Lohri Celebrations
Festivals are all about food, and Lohri has its own set of delightful treats:
1. Gajak Or Chikki:
Sweets made of winter-special gur (jaggery), gur ki chikki combines melted gur with crunchy peanuts, creating a sweet delight that warms, both the heart and the body. Click here for the recipe for gajak.
2. Til Ladoo:
A classic ladoo variation, til ka ladoo blends sesame seeds and gur, resulting in a delightful sweet that provides warmth in the chilly weather. Click here for the recipe for til ladoo.
3. Rewari:
These bite-sized sweet treats, made of jaggery and sesame seeds, accompany popcorn and peanuts. Rewaris not only tantalize the taste buds but also offer warmth in the winter cold.
4. Pinni:
Also known as atta ladoos, Pinni is a rich Punjabi dessert made with wheat flour, milk, sugar syrup, dry fruits, nuts, and desi ghee. A winter favourite in North India, Pinni is a must-have during Lohri. Click here for the recipe for Pinni.
5. Makke Ki Roti With Sarso Ka Saag:
A quintessential Punjabi dish, makke ki roti and sarso ka saag, topped with white butter, is the go-to meal during Lohri. This hearty dish embodies Punjab's essence and serves as the ultimate winter comfort food. Click here for the recipe for Makke ki roti with sarson ka saag.
As you gather around the bonfire, savor these festive foods, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the celebrations. Happy Lohri 2024!