Holy fire binds cultures together

Jan 13, 2012 - Shruti Badyal |

Age Correspondent

The long wait for the bonfire festival is over as Lohri is here with its folk songs and dances. A festival more popular in Punjab, Lohri is celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm in this busy metro too. Amidst the cold weather and temperatures dipping down, the festival that celebrates the harvest of Rabi (winter) crops brings with it a palpable mood of joy and celebration.
In Delhi, Lohri celebrations are no longer restricted to just pockets of Punjabi settlements, but it is revelry time for all communities to come together by the bonfire.
“Although most of us are usually busy all year through, Lohri is our time to come together, relax and enjoy the festivities. Being a Bengali, I still don’t know the significance of circling around (parikrama) the bonfire and the custom of throwing puffed rice, popcorn and other munchies into the fire, but I love the tradition,” says Kakali Bhattacharjee, a government employee.
It matters not what community one belongs to, it’s a bonfire party for all. “We are South Indians and didn’t really know what this festival is all about till we shifted to Delhi. Earlier I thought it’s just another bonfire party, but then I started enjoying the folk songs they sing. And now it’s a grand celebration for me and my kids,” says Chetna Shrivatava, a school teacher.
For many Assamese settled in Delhi, Lohri is their connection to their roots, giving them a taste of their traditions in this busy city. “Lohri to someone who isn’t a North Indian like me has always been something intriguing. It makes me feel connected to my own culture as we also celebrate Bihu on this day and the rituals are quite similar — from praying to the God of Fire, to enjoying til and gur. The festival is a traditional way to welcome another flourishing year ahead,” says Samhita, a PR professional.

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