Sikhs in Hyderabad celebrate Lohri with traditional fervour
HYDERABAD: “Lohri is a festive occasion through which we express our gratitude to Mother Mature for the harvest,” said Harpreet Kaur, a city resident from the Sikh community.
“It’s not just a festival but one of thanksgiving and togetherness.”
This year, the celebration resonated across the city, with members from the community coming together to celebrate Lohri with joy on Monday.
At Gurudwara Sahib in Secunderabad, the festival began with prayers and kirtans. The evening was marked by a traditional bonfire, symbolising the end of winter and the onset of the harvest season. Families and friends gathered around the bonfire specially lit for the occasion, throwing puffed rice, popcorn, sweets and peanuts into the flames while performing Bhangra dances and singing traditional folk songs about Dulla Bhatti (a legendary Punjabi hero associated with Lohri celebrations). The celebration was brought alive by Surender Pal Singh, a popular ragi jatha with his performance.
Jagmohan Singh, general secretary of Gurudwara Sahib in Secunderabad, shared his childhood memories of the festival: “When I was six years old, people used to celebrate Lohri by setting a bonfire near farms. The bonfire was always the most exciting part for me as a child. I loved roaming around it, throwing popcorn, sweets, and peanuts while dancing and singing.”
The festival also celebrates newly wedded couples and newborn babies.
Navneet Singh, who organised a Lohri gathering at his home in Banjara Hills, said, “My children are very excited about the bonfire. It’s heartening to see younger generations embrace these traditions with verve and enthusiasm.”
Harpal Singh, a local businessman, said, “Lohri is a time to thank Waheguru for His blessings and to share our happiness with everyone. The bonfire represents warmth and hope for the coming year.”
Lohri celebrations also carried a deeper spiritual meaning with the Sikh community praying for “Sabha da Balla” — the well-being of all creations.