Lohri is a vibrant festival celebrated primarily in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. It marks the end of winter and the harvest season, particularly for rabi crops like sugarcane. The festival is not only a celebration of agriculture but also a cultural and religious observance, symbolizing joy, new beginnings, and prosperity.
Lohri 2025: date and muhurat
Lohri is observed annually on January 13 and January 14, coinciding with Makar Sankranti, a major Hindu festival. The festival is calculated based on the ancient Bikrami calendar, which blends lunar and solar cycles.
According to Drik Panchang, Lohri 2024 will be celebrated on Monday, January 13, with the Lohri Sankranti moment taking place at 9:03 AM on Tuesday, January 14.
Lohri 2025: rituals and puja samagri
The significant ritual of Lohri involves lighting a bonfire, often made of wood and cow dung cakes. This bonfire serves as a symbol of purification and a tribute to Agni, the fire god. People gather in open spaces or outside their homes to celebrate this sacred event.
Jammu lit up with a spectacular Lohri celebration at the historic *Raghunath Bazaar* and Kala Kendra, blending tradition, music and festive joy.
— Jammu Tourism (@JammuTourism) January 12, 2025
At Raghunath Bazaar, the event featured vibrant *music kiosks* and captivating live performances by the renowned *Saptak Group. pic.twitter.com/VqmDhXTygq
Offerings are made to the fire during the rituals, including sesame seeds, jaggery, gajak, rewri, and peanuts. Devootes perform a traditional parikrama (circling the fire), praying for a prosperous harvest and a successful season ahead.
The Lohri bonfire is not only an agricultural symbol but also a way to honor the gods, especially Agni and Surya Devta (the Sun god). These prayers are meant to bring blessings for the future, ensuring that the coming crops will thrive. As the fire burns, people dance to the beat of the dhol, adding a joyful and energetic element to the celebration.
Lohri 202: history and significance
Lohri has its origins deeply rooted in folklore and agricultural traditions. Historically, it has been an important festival for communities dependent on farming, celebrating the end of the cold winter months and the arrival of longer, warmer days.
J&K: The Self-Help Groups (SHGs) of District Udhampur celebrated the Lohri festival at the DC complex to promote local craftsmanship pic.twitter.com/8uhAS6gcL9
— IANS (@ians_india) January 11, 2025
The festival also has strong associations with fire worship, representing the warmth and light that fire brings, particularly during the harsh winter. As people gather around the bonfire, they believe the flames will help burn away misfortunes and evil, ushering in a prosperous and successful year. Special foods and offerings, including popcorn, sesame, and jaggery, are prepared and shared, fostering a sense of community and family bonding.
For many, Lohri represents a new beginning. The rituals and prayers are considered a way to ensure a bright future, both in terms of agriculture and personal life.