Lohri 2025: Date, Significance, and How It’s Celebrated
Lohri 2025: Date, Significance, and How It’s Celebrated
Lohri is a vibrant festival celebrated primarily in North India, especially in the state of Punjab, and holds special significance for the Sikh community. While Lohri is predominantly recognized as a Sikh festival, its date is determined according to the Hindu calendar, as noted by Drikpanchang. This festival is closely associated with the Hindu celebration of Makar Sankranti, with Lohri taking place a day prior to it.
This year, Lohri will be observed on Monday, January 13, 2025, while Makar Sankranti will follow on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. According to Drikpanchang, the Lohri Sankranti Moment will occur at 09:03 AM on January 14.
The festivities of Lohri are most commonly seen in Punjab, along with regions of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu. It is a joyous occasion celebrated by both Hindus and Sikhs across the country, bringing communities together in a spirit of merriment and tradition.
Is Lohri a public holiday?
No, it is not. However, January does have a total of 13 holidays, which include the second and fourth Saturdays as well as Sundays.
Why is Lohri celebrated?
Lohri is celebrated on a day when the days begin to get longer and the nights shorter. It marks the harvest season and is a time of joy and festivity. On this day, people gather around bonfires to sing and dance.
For the farming community, the harvest period is a time of happiness and celebration. Farmers come together to express their gratitude to Surya, the Sun God, for providing the warmth and sunlight that contributed to a bountiful harvest, a reward for their months of hard work.
Additionally, Lohri holds special significance for newly married couples or families with a newborn, as it is a tradition for all family members to celebrate their first Lohri together.
The Tale of Dulla Bhatti
One of the most well-known tales linked to Lohri is that of Dulla Bhatti, a legendary hero from Punjab. Dulla Bhatti was a Muslim Rajput who stood up against the oppressive Mughal Empire. He is often referred to as the Robin Hood of Punjab for his efforts to safeguard local villagers, particularly young girls, from being enslaved by the Mughals.
As the story goes, Dulla Bhatti rescued two girls who were being sold into slavery and facilitated their marriages. This act of bravery and compassion is celebrated in a popular Lohri folk song called ‘Sunder Mundriye’, which recounts his heroic deeds. People sing this song around the bonfire during the festival, and it remains a beloved part of Lohri celebrations even today.
