Lohri 2017: The significance of celebrations

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Indian festivals are all about big gatherings. They exhibit the joy of togetherness as people join in the celebrations as a cohesive unit. The Punjabi festival of Lohri is no different. Bonfires form a quintessential part of this joyous festival that celebrates the end of cold winters by looking forward to a great harvest and praying for prosperity and happiness.

Puffed rice, sugar candy and peanuts are tossed into the fire as an offering to the fire god.

Here’s taking a look at the significance of Lohri celebrations:

It is believed that by performing the circumambulation of the Lohri fire with utmost faith and optimism, one can expect miracles to happen.

People look forward to Lohri to wish for the well-being of loved ones, to pray for children’s marriage, the childless seek an offspring,

People offer various kinds of food items to the Lohri fire to seek blessings, prosperity and happiness from the almighty. The Lohri Prasad consists of five food items which include the Til (Sesame), the Gajak (a sweet preparation), Gud (Jaggery), Moongphali (Peanuts) and Phuliya (Popcorn). These are offered to the fire God to seek his blessings.

The festival ushers in a new dawn for a great harvest season as it bids goodbye to the cold and bone-chilling winters.