Lohri, the main festival of Punjabis, marks the end of winter. Every year in the month of Pausha, Lohri is celebrated with great enthusiasm a day before Makar Sankranti. This year, this holy festival will be celebrated with great pomp on Sunday, 14th January.
In Punjabi homes, the first Lohri of a newly married couple is very special and this harvest festival is celebrated grandly to bless the bride and groom. The new bride is also given a lavish party, with gifts of clothes, make-up and jewelery from the in-laws and other relatives. If you are a newlywed who will be celebrating the first Lohri after marriage, here are some important things that you should keep in mind.
Do's and Don'ts for first Lohri
Rohing Fire
Make a bonfire (Lohri) in the evening and gather your loved ones and friends around it. Lohri is similar to Thanksgiving, so add corn, sesame, jaggery and peanuts to the fire.
Traditional Attire
Wearing traditional Punjabi attire during Lohri is believed to bring prosperity, especially to newlyweds. Therefore, brides should apply mehendi, wear a new ethnic attire of bright colors and adorn themselves with bindis and bangles. It is also necessary for the groom to wear a new turban.
Traditional food
Sarso da saag, makki ki roti, jaggery and sesame seeds are among the dishes that everyone should share on Lohri as Punjab is known for its culinary arts. Enjoy additional dishes and sweets with your family and neighbors. Sing to traditional folk music and dance around the bonfire to enjoy the evening to the fullest.
Gifts
Giving and receiving gifts on Lohri is an age-old tradition. So, if you and your spouse are newly married, be prepared to receive a lot of gifts from friends and relatives. Some popular choices for first Lohri gifts are candy, clothes, dry fruits etc.
Stay away from negativity and
try to be happy on the day of Lohri. Wear new clothes and welcome the day with enthusiasm. As Lohri approaches, winters are coming to an end, so embrace it with warmth and good vibes.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Lohri is a day of happiness, so try to minimize alcohol consumption. Try to avoid any bad habit today because today is the day of happiness and the beginning of long days. Have a good time with your loved ones and friends.
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