With bonfires and drumbeats, Delhi prepares to celebrate Lohri

Since ages, India is recognised as an agricultural country and many festivals are celebrated as per the agricultural cycles. Lohri is one such festival celebrated in the joy of harvesting the Rabi crop. The festival is celebrated across India and Delhi is no exception.

Celebrations in North India

The celebrations start with bonfire and loads of entertainment including dance and exchange of gifts. In North India, as the winter season gets to its peak, the festival of Lohri assumes significance with spreading warmth in the form of lighting the bonfire and celebrating with feasts, song and drumbeats around the holy fire. Sesame seeds, jiggery, popcorn and peanuts are tossed into the bonfire as offerings.

The newlywed couple are loaded with gifts from maternal side for bride and if there is a new born in family, the first festival for new born is made extra special.

Delhi Gears up for Lohri

Delhi, especially is all geared up for the celebrations with wood logs collected, mouth-watering sweets in place, DJs ready to start off, kids waiting for sweets and gifts in exciting wrappers ready to be distributed. The festival begins after the sunset with lighting of the holy bonfire by any elderly woman in the family and festivities go on till the fire dies out. Technically the festival celebrations with music and feasting goes on till midnight. Initially, the blessings of Fire God (Agni Devta) is sought by offerings in the form of first harvested crops. After the rituals there will be loads of fun and enjoyment. The mood is upbeat as the Country’s capital is all set to begin the harvest festival on Thursday amidst mirth and joy. Also this festival includes flying kites soaring high into the sky.