Happy Lohri PNG
Lohri is a traditional celebration especially observed by northern India and associated with the Punjab region, to mark the passage of the winter solstice and to welcome the longer days and the sun's journey to the Northern Hemisphere. It is typically celebrated in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and is one of the most popular festivals in North India.
Lohri is linked to different important legends, but is usually observed the day before the Maghi festival, dedicated to the sun god Surya. It is a public holiday in the North Indian region and is usually celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims. Celebrations will reach a higher level of excitement in homes that have recently married or given birth.
Historical references to Lohri are mentioned by European visitors who visited Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1832. Further references are made by Captain Mackeson, who handed out suits and large sums of money as rewards on Lohri day in 1836. Bonfires were also recorded at night at the royal court in 1844.
Another popular folklore links Lohri to the story of Dulla Bhatti, a folk hero who allegedly came from the Punjab region and led a revolt against Mughal rule during the reign of the Mughal emperor Akbar. Dulla Bhatti was seen as a hero for saving Hindu girls from being forcibly bought and sold in the slave markets of the Middle East.
Therefore, besides singing and dancing around sacred bonfires, children go around the houses singing traditional folk songs of Lohri, which also includes the name of Dulla Bhatti. After the song is over, the elders in the house are expected to give snacks and money to the singing group of young people.
