Smart-Celebration

As I pick my phone to wish everyone a Happy Lohri, the thought of pollution crosses my mind. In a hope to recall the significance of the festival, and be able to separate it with today’s fancy celebration, I go down the memory lane to school days. Not very sure of what I recollect is actually right, I refer to Wikipedia.

Here is a quick summary of associated stories. 1st being marking the end of winter season and beginning of longer days, 2nd is related to praying to God of fire for abundant crops & prosperity, and 3rd story related to Dulla Bhatti (whose real name was Abdullah Bhati) who was regarded as a hero in Punjab, for rescuing Punjabi girls from being forcibly taken to be sold in slave market of the Middle East.

Lost in pomp and show we often forgot the significance of many a festival and end up celebrating them as a blind ritual. It is my belief that Rituals that were then made, were based on a logical approach depending on those times situations. It is only wise to carry the legacy with a logical approach and make amendments in rituals for the interest of society. Remember, the gist of all festivals has always been the same; Getting loved ones together and living quality time.

I hereby humbly request you to celebrate Lohri in groups, to live the true essence of festival whilst keeping our environment safe. 

Happy Lohri to all.

Manisha Dawar