The Origin:

More than just a festival it is a way of life. The celebrations and gatherings make it a community festival. Lohri involves a Puja Parikrama around the bonfire and distribution of Prasad.

This symbolizes a prayer to Agni, the spark of life, for abundant crops and prosperity. The first Lohri of a new born child and a newly wed bride is considered very auspicious.

Significance:

Lohri is an occasion to engage in revelry and make merry. The festival is all about being with closed ones and thanking god for all the prosperity bestowed. Bonfires are lit on the occasion and all family members and invited guests take their turns to move around the Lohri bonfire and throw puffed rice and popcorns into the fire along with other sweets.

This is followed by Punjabi Gidda and Bhangra (popular dance forms) to the beats of the Dhol (musical instrument).