Lohri Festival 2026

Full Date

13 January 2026 Evening 6:00 PM – 13 January 2026 Midnight 12:00 AM

Muhurat Timings in India

• Lohri Bonfire Rituals

  Main ritual of the evening where devotees gather to light bonfires symbolizing warmth, light, and new beginnings.

  13 January 2026 6:00 PM – 13 January 2026 8:00 PM

• Cultural Folk Performances

  Communities organize bhangra, gidda, and singing events celebrating the joy of harvest.

  13 January 2026 8:00 PM – 13 January 2026 11:00 PM

Introduction

Lohri is a traditional Punjabi festival celebrated in northern India to mark the end of winter and the onset of longer days after the winter solstice. It is primarily a harvest festival observed with bonfires, music, and communal gatherings as people thank nature for abundance.

Other Names

Lohadi, Harvest Bonfire Festival

Pooja Vidhi

• At sunset, arrange a bonfire in an open area or the courtyard.
• Light the bonfire while chanting prayers for good harvest and prosperity.
• Circle the fire three times offering sesame seeds, rewari, popcorn, and jaggery.
• Sing and dance around the fire invoking warmth and unity.
• End the rituals by sharing Lohri prasad among the community.

Rituals

• Gather around bonfires at sunset and circle it with family and friends.
• Offer sesame seeds, jaggery, gajak, rewari, and peanuts to the holy fire.
• Sing traditional folk songs like 'Sundar Mundriye Ho' and dance to the beats of the dhol.
• Exchange greetings and distribute sweets made from sesame and jaggery.
• Newlyweds and newborns are specially honored with blessings and celebration.

Regional Highlights

• In Punjab and Haryana, Lohri bonfires burn brightly in fields and courtyards symbolizing agricultural joy.
• In Delhi and Chandigarh, urban communities celebrate with music, dhol, and festive food.
• Farmers across northern India thank the Sun God for longer days and successful harvests.
• Newly married couples and newborns are celebrated with special songs and blessings.

History

Lohri’s roots lie in the agrarian culture of Punjab and Haryana, linked to the harvesting of sugarcane and Rabi crops. It is also connected to the folk tale of Dulla Bhatti, a heroic figure who rescued girls from oppression. His bravery and generosity are remembered through songs sung around the Lohri bonfire.

Additional Information

• Lohri precedes Makar Sankranti and marks the end of the coldest period of winter.
• The festival honors fire (Agni Dev) and Sun (Surya Dev) for life and warmth.
• Lohri reinforces Punjabi cultural identity through community harmony and gratitude.