8 things you didn't know about Lohri, the harvest festival

By Afiur
January 12, 2026

Lohri has Ancient Agricultural Roots

Lohri dates back to ancient agrarian traditions and marks the end of winter and the harvesting of rabi crops, especially sugarcane. It symbolises gratitude to nature and the sun for abundance and pros

The Festival Is Closely Linked to the Winter Solstice

Lohri is celebrated around the winter solstice, signifying longer days and shorter nights. This transition is considered highly auspicious and represents hope, renewal, and warmth.Source: unsplash

Lohri Is Especially Important for Newlyweds and Newborns

Families celebrate Lohri with extra enthusiasm when there’s a new born or a newly married couple. It is believed to bring good fortune, fertility, and happiness into the household.Source: unsplash

Lohri Marks the Beginning of Harvest Celebrations

Lohri acts as a prelude to other harvest festivals like Makar Sankranti and Pongal. While rituals differ, the core theme of thanking nature remains the same across regions.Source: unsplash

Sesame and Jaggery Have Seasonal Significance

Foods made with til (sesame) and gur (jaggery) are not just festive treats, they help keep the body warm during winter and symbolise sweetness and togetherness in life.Source: unsplash

Folk Songs Carry Stories and Legends

Traditional Lohri songs narrate tales of Dulla Bhatti, a Punjabi folk hero known for helping the poor. These songs preserve history and community values through generations.Source: unsplash

Fire Is the Central Element of Lohri

The bonfire is not just symbolic but deeply spiritual. People circle the fire and offer sesame seeds, jaggery, and peanuts as a way of thanking the sun and seeking blessings for the coming year.Source

Celebrated beyond Punjab

Though rooted in Punjab, Lohri is celebrated in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and by Punjabi communities worldwide, making it a global cultural celebration today.Source: unsplash

See More Stories