Lohri is a holiday celebrated by Buddhist, Hindu, and Sikh people. Originally intended as a winter solstice celebration, the holiday has since shifted in timing and taken on additional meanings. Now it honors the end of winter, along with the harvest of rabi crops, which are sown in winter for harvest in spring. People celebrate with dancing, singing, and wearing brightly colored clothes.
Traditional foods include peanuts, sesame seeds, and butter. These represent abundance, fertility, and good health. Sweets also play a role in Lohri festivities. You may wish to look for honey-roasted peanuts or sesame candies. Clarified butter, or ghee, is marvelous for cooking because it can withstand high temperatures without burning. Here is a blessing to say over your holiday treats before enjoying them: "Seeds of winter Turned to spring, Bless my magic As I sing. Bring abundance To the land, Health and honor To my hand." |