K. L. Jit Walia, Editor-in-Chief, Punjab Media Times :- Lohri is a folk festival of Punjab that is not limited merely to bonfires, revris, and bhangra. Rather, it is a living symbol of the Punjabi way of life, faith in agriculture, family bonds, and social unity. Celebrated every year a day before Makar Sankranti, Lohri marks the end of the harsh winter and conveys the message of the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.
Punjab is an agrarian state, and Lohri is directly connected to the life of farmers. On this day, farmers circle the sacred fire and thank God for a good harvest, praying that their fields and granaries remain prosperous in the coming times as well. Items like sesame seeds, jaggery, peanuts, and makki di roti give completeness to the festival, symbolizing simplicity and a healthy way of living.
The greatest significance of Lohri is associated with the birth of a newborn child or the celebration of a newly married couple. This festival provides an opportunity to share happiness and strengthen relationships. Children going from door to door singing “Sundar Mundriye” and elders giving generously reflect the richness and warmth of Punjabi culture.
However, it is unfortunate that with the passage of time, the true spirit of festivals is gradually fading. Lohri, once a symbol of simplicity and togetherness, has in many places become limited to showmanship, unnecessary expenditure, and noise. Lavish parties, fireworks, and the use of intoxicants are raising serious questions about the sanctity of this sacred festival.
Lohri teaches us that fire is not meant only to provide warmth, but also symbolizes the burning away of inner ego, hatred, and evils. In today’s times, when society is struggling with issues such as drug abuse, unemployment, family breakdown, and social inequality, the message of Lohri becomes even more relevant and meaningful.
This festival reminds us of mutual brotherhood, helping one another, and living a life of shared values. Lohri should be celebrated not only within homes but also at a social level—by sharing joy with the needy, distributing clothes or sweets to underprivileged children, and including lonely and marginalized individuals in the celebrations.
For today’s younger generation, Lohri is also a lesson on the importance of staying connected to one’s culture and traditions. In an era dominated by Western influences, if we forget our folk festivals, we risk losing our identity as well.
Through this editorial, Punjab Media Times appeals to all Punjabis to celebrate Lohri in its true spirit. Celebrating the festival by staying away from intoxicants, caring for the environment, and fulfilling our social responsibilities is the real essence of Lohri.
Let us, on this Lohri, not only offer revris into the sacred fire, but also burn away the hatred, inequality, and evils within ourselves. This is the true message of Lohri, and this is the real beauty of Punjabi culture.
KL JIT WALIA
