LOHRI MESSAGE 2026: From the Desk of the Chief Editor: Vijay Sood

Every year in mid-January, when the cold is at its peak and the land seems wrapped in silence, a powerful transformation begins. Across North India, from the snow-kissed hills of Himachal Pradesh to the golden fields of Punjab, flames rise into the night sky. These flames are not of destruction — they are flames of hope, gratitude, and renewal. This is Lohri.

Lohri is not merely a festival. It is the heartbeat of agrarian civilization, the celebration of the Sun, the Earth, and human perseverance. It reminds us that even in the coldest season, warmth can be created — not just by fire, but by unity.

Lohri is celebrated on January 13 every year, marking the end of winter’s harshest period and the beginning of longer, brighter days. It coincides with the harvesting cycle of the Rabi crop, especially wheat. For farmers, this time is filled with gratitude and anticipation — gratitude for the crop that is growing and anticipation of abundance to come.

Historically, Lohri is linked with Dulla Bhatti, a legendary hero of Punjab who protected the poor, helped girls in distress, and stood against injustice. His spirit lives in Lohri songs, reminding people that festivals must also carry values of courage, kindness, and social justice.

The Lohri bonfire is sacred. It represents:

• The Sun
• Energy
• Life
• Renewal

When people throw sesame seeds, jaggery, peanuts, popcorn, and sugarcane into the fire, they are offering nature back to nature. This ancient ritual is a reminder that humans are partners with the Earth, not its masters.

Lohri teaches an eternal truth: When we thank nature, nature protects us

Lohri has always been a festival of fresh starts. It is traditionally celebrated for:

• Newborn babies
• Newly married couples
• New chapters in life

It symbolizes fertility, growth, prosperity, and continuity. In villages, elders bless children, families share sweets, and strangers become friends around the fire.

In today’s world, people are more connected digitally but more disconnected emotionally. Depression, loneliness, and anxiety are rising. In such times, festivals like Lohri are not old traditions — they are emotional medicine.

Lohri brings:

• Community bonding
• Mental healing
• Cultural pride
• Emotional warmth

It is one of the few festivals that forces people to step out of their homes and stand together — physically and emotionally.

Lohri celebrates the solar cycle and agricultural rhythm. In a world facing climate change, Lohri teaches respect for:

• The Sun
• The seasons
• The soil

It reminds humanity that sustainable living is not a modern idea — it is an ancient wisdom

In the coming decades, as artificial intelligence and digital life expand, human warmth may shrink. Lohri will become even more valuable as a cultural anchor.

Children who grow up celebrating Lohri learn:

• Gratitude
• Sharing
• Respect for nature
• Social unity

These are values no machine can teach.

Lohri tells us:

• Celebrate even in cold times
• Share even when you have little
• Stay hopeful when life feels dark

It is the festival of the human spirit.

When flames rise on Lohri night, they carry prayers into the sky — prayers for health, peace, prosperity, and unity.

As the world becomes faster, colder, and more divided, Lohri reminds us of something eternal: Humanity survives not on technology, but on togetherness.