The festival of harvest, Lohri, is being celebrated today. It is mainly observed in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and the surrounding regions. The festival is associated with the joy of ripened crops and the sun’s northward journey. People light bonfires in the evening, sing traditional songs, and share moments of happiness with family and society. The festival also conveys a message of mutual love and unity.

President Droupadi Murmu has extended greetings to citizens on the occasion of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu, being celebrated from today. In her message, the President said that these festivals symbolise the country’s rich agricultural traditions and reflect the spirit of national unity. She noted that they highlight India’s vibrant and diverse cultural heritage.

The President also said that these occasions provide an opportunity to salute the hard work and dedication of the country’s farmers, who tirelessly work to feed the nation. She added that festivals celebrated across different parts of the country express collective gratitude towards Mother Nature. On the auspicious occasion, President Murmu expressed hope that the spirit of love and solidarity in society would continue to grow stronger, inspiring everyone to work together towards building a prosperous nation.

In Punjab, Lohri is a celebration of happiness, warmth, and brotherhood. The festival is marked in the evening with rituals of lighting bonfires and prayers for the happiness and prosperity of humankind. Although cold conditions in the state have forced children to remain indoors for now, they will go door to door today to collect sweets while singing Lohri songs.

The festival becomes even more joyous for newlyweds and parents of newborn babies. Special programmes to celebrate ‘Dhiyan Di Lohri’ are also being organised at various places in the state, reflecting a positive transformation in society’s mindset towards daughters.