Happy New Year 2025

Tag: Traditions

Valentine’s Day 2025: How Is the Day of Romance Related to Roman Festival Lupercalia? V-Day Origins & Traditions Explained

Have you ever considered that Valentine’s Day may have roots in the spirited Roman festival of Lupercalia? This vibrant celebration, held every year on February 15, welcomed the arrival of spring and honored fertility and the renewal of life. It included various rituals, such as the sacrifice of goats and the use of their hides as whips, playfully aimed at encouraging fertility among women. Burgundy Broken Heart Nail Trend: Chrome Nail Look for Valentine’s Day 2025 Mood Board.

During this joyous festival, young men participated in a tradition of drawing the names of women, creating temporary pairings that hinted at the romantic connections we cherish today. As time went on and Christianity spread, these ancient customs began to intertwine with Christian observances, ultimately giving rise to St. Valentine’s feast day. What started as a wild and lively event evolved into a day devoted to love and affection, shaping the Valentine’s Day we celebrate now.

Imagine that time, filled with vibrant festivities and rituals that brought people together! Fast forward to today, and we have transformed these age-old practices into a beautiful tribute to romance. Thanks to thoughtful campaigns from brands like ‘Archies,’ the narrative shifted towards modern love stories. Compassionate efforts from Planet and Animal Protective Organizations have also emerged, highlighting the importance of celebrating life in all its forms. Is the Concept of ‘Internet-Induced Brain Rot’ a Myth?

And now, here we are, immersed once again in the enchanting embrace of Valentine’s Week 2025!

Valentine’s Week officially switched on, on the 7th of February with Rose Day, followed by Propose Day, Chocolate Day on the 9th, Teddy Day on the 10th, Promise Day on the 11th, Hug Day on the 12th, and culminating with Kiss Day on the 13th, leading into the love celebration of Valentine’s Day on the 14th. Gen-Z has pushed for a more compassionate approach to these celebrations, emphasizing love not only for one another but also for our planet and all living beings a beautiful reminder of the interconnectedness we share. Recognizing the challenges of global warming and animal welfare today adds a profound layer to how we express love and care.

This is your moment to embrace the magic of love! After all, what truly matters in life is sharing our journeys with those we cherish. Celebrating love in all its forms is one of the most essential parts of our human experience. So, if you believe in love, make this Valentine’s Week unforgettable by showering your loved ones with thoughtful surprises and heartfelt expressions. Each day offers a new opportunity to celebrate the love that fills our hearts and connects us all. Let the festivities be a reflection of the deep emotions you hold within, as they remind us of our shared humanity.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 11, 2025 09:48 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

February 11, 2025
Thai Amavasai 2025 Date, Time and Significance: Know Amavasai Tithi, Puja Rituals and Auspicious Traditions to Celebrate the Tamil Festival on New Moon Day

Thai Amavasai 2025 will be celebrated on January 29. This annual celebration is an important observance for Tamil Hindus across the world. While the entire month of Thai is considered to be extremely auspicious, Thai Amavasai holds immense significance as a day to remember our ancestors who have passed on and offer our prayers to help them attain moksha. As we prepare to celebrate Thai Amavasai 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Thai Amavasai and its significance. Thai Amavasai 2025 Wishes and HD Images for Free Download Online: WhatsApp Messages, Greetings and Wallpapers To Celebrate the New Moon Day Dedicated to Ancestors.

When is Thai Amavasai 2025?

Thai Amavasai is celebrated on the new moon day in the Tamil month of Thai. Thai Amavasai 2025 falls on January 29. The Amavasai Tithi for Thai Amavasai begins at 21:05 on Jan 28, 2025, and will go on till 19:35 on Jan 29, 2025.

Significance of Thai Amavasai

Amavasai tithi is usually dedicated to remembering our ancestors, offering special delicacies, and conducting puja to appease them. Thai Amavasai is considered to be especially auspicious as the entire month of Thai is the first month in Uttarayan. People often observe a special Thai Amavasai fast and make special delicacies that are offered to their ancestors.

The celebration of Thai Amavasai begins early in the morning, when people have a holy bath, visit temples and offer their prayers. Reading spiritual texts that are related to paying homage to the forefathers is also a common practice on this day. Many people make it a point to indulge in charity and offer free meals to those in need on the occasion of Thai Amavasai.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 28, 2025 08:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 28, 2025
Chinese New Year 2025 Superstitions: How To Bring In Wealth, Luck and Prosperity? 7 Traditions That You Should Know of To Ring in the Lunar New Year

Happy Chinese New Year! The significant Spring Festival of China is here, and people are captivated by traditional celebrations. The festival marks the beginning of a Lunar New Year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. Chinese New Year 2025 is on January 29 and this year is the Year of the Wood Snake. Chinese New Year is steeped in rich traditions and customs, many of which are linked to superstitions believed to bring good fortune, health, and success for the coming year. If you’re celebrating this vibrant festival, here are seven superstitions you should know to help you welcome the new year with positivity and good luck. Chinese New Year 2025 Traditions and Superstitions: From Cleaning Homes Before Lunar New Year to Gifting Red Envelopes, Things To Follow for Abundant New Year.

1. Clean Before New Year’s Day

Cleaning your home before Chinese New Year is essential, but it’s important to stop before the new year begins. Sweeping or cleaning during the first few days of the new year is believed to sweep away your good fortune. So, tidy up ahead of time to ensure luck stays with you throughout the year!

2. Avoid Using Negative Words

During Chinese New Year, it’s important to avoid words related to bad luck or negativity, such as “death,” “sick,” or “bankrupt.” Using positive and optimistic language is believed to ensure a smooth and prosperous year ahead.

3. No Lending Money

Lending money during the New Year period is considered bad luck as it is thought to result in money problems throughout the year. To avoid financial misfortune, people avoid lending or borrowing money in the first few days of the year.

4. Eat Dumplings for Wealth

Dumplings, especially those shaped like ancient gold ingots, are a popular dish during Chinese New Year. It is believed that eating them will bring wealth and prosperity. The more dumplings you eat, the more luck you invite! Lucky Food for Chinese New Year 2025.

5. Red Is A Lucky Color

Red is the color of luck and happiness in Chinese culture. During Chinese New Year, people decorate their homes with red lanterns and wear red clothes to invite good fortune. It is also common to give red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money to family and friends.

6. Avoid Washing Your Hair on New Year’s Day

Washing your hair on the first day of the new year is thought to wash away your good luck. To avoid this, people often avoid washing their hair on the first day of Chinese New Year and opt for a clean but dry hairstyle.

7. Leave the Door Open at Midnight

At midnight, many people leave their doors open to allow the old year to leave and the new year to enter. This act is believed to let in good fortune, while bad luck and negative energy are allowed to leave the house.

Chinese New Year superstitions are not just fun traditions, but they also offer a sense of hope and positivity for the future. By following these customs, people celebrate the promise of new beginnings, prosperity, and joy.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 28, 2025 04:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 28, 2025
Korean New Year 2025 Date and Significance: Know History and Traditions of Seollal, the First Day of the Korean Lunar Calendar

Korean New Year, known as Seollal in Korean, marks the first day of the new year according to the Korean lunar calendar. Korean New Year 2025 falls on Wednesday, January 29. The festival is celebrated with a lot of joy and enthusiasm by Koreans all across the globe. It is usually marked by a national holiday, and it is one of the most important and traditional holidays in Korean culture. Korean New Year, or Seollal, usually happens in January or February, after the winter solstice, on the second new moon. The tradition is deeply influenced by China’s lunar cycle. The day is celebrated with feasts, traditional folk games, people wearing the hanbok, performing ancestral rites, and visiting loved ones in their hometowns. Here’s all you need to know about the festival. Korean New Year Wishes and Seollal HD Images: WhatsApp Messages, Greetings, Wallpapers and Quotes To Mark the First Day of the Lunar New Year.

Korean New Year 2025 Date

Korean New Year 2025 falls on Wednesday, January 29.

Korean New Year History

Korean New Year is a cultural holiday, and it has its roots in traditional Chinese Confucianism. The unique tradition is greatly influenced by China, and it is based on the lunar cycle. Seollal is celebrated on the first day of the Korean lunar calendar. The celebrations usually last for three days, which are the day before the Korean New Year, the Korean New Year Day itself, and the day after the Korean New Year. Two books, the Book of Sui and the Book of Tang, contain the earliest recorded histories of Silla, an ancient kingdom that thrived from 57 BC to 935 AD and is renowned for celebrating Seollal. Traces of government officials from the Joseon dynasty, a renowned kingdom, celebrating the Lunar New Year in five grand palaces have also been found.

Korean New Year Traditions

Seollal is a time for family gatherings and traditional customs. Families wear the hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) and prepare special food items like tteokguk, japchae, Korean dumplings, bulgogi, and more. People honour their ancestors through a ritual called ‘Charye.’ Younger ones perform a deep bow before elders, called sebae, wish them good health and happiness and receive money in red envelopes as a blessing. People also play various games and share meals to celebrate together.

Korean New Year Significance

Korean New Year, or Seollal, is a very significant celebration as it marks the start of a new year. It is a time for celebrations as well as showing respect for family and ancestors. During the festival, Koreans express gratitude for their blessings, and the rituals help strengthen family bonds. Many also reflect on the past year, celebrate togetherness, and set intentions for the future. Lunar New Year in Korea: From Yaksik to Sikhye, 5 Korean Desserts To Enjoy on Seollal.

The Korean New Year holiday is not only a time for celebration; it also highlights the country’s rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted values of gratitude and respect.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 21, 2025 04:29 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 23, 2025
Lohri 2025 Date and Sankranti Time: Know Rituals, Traditions and Significance To Celebrate the Harvest Festival of Punjab

Lohri is a popular North Indian festival celebrated with great festivities in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, as well as in other parts of India. The auspicious festival of Lohri is celebrated one day before Maghi, also known as Makar Sankranti, and its date is determined as per Hindu Solar calendar. The date of Lohri changes every 70 years. It typically falls on January 13 each year, marking the end of the winter solstice. Lohri 2025 falls on Monday, January 13. It is a harvest festival, deeply rooted in agrarian traditions of India. In this article, let us know more about Lohri 2025 date, Sankranti time, rituals, traditions and significance to celebrate the festival.

Lohri 2025 Date and Sankranti Time

Lohri 2025 is celebrated on Monday, January 13. The Lohri Sankranti Moment is at 09:03 AM on January 14. Lohri 2025 Date and Celebrations: Why Is Popcorn and Other Food Items Thrown Into Bonfire?

Lohri Rituals and Traditions

Lohri, also popularly known as Lohadi or Lal Loi, marks the end of winter, and is a traditional welcome of longer days and the sun’s journey to the Northern Hemisphere. This festival is observed the night before Maghi. The main highlight of the Lohri festival is the lighting of a bonfire, around which people gather in the evening, offer sesame seeds, jaggery, peanuts, among other thigs to the fire as a way of expressing gratitude to nature and praying for prosperity.

The festival of Lohri is a time for family and friends to come together, marking the end of the winter season and celebrating the harvest. It is celebrated by lighting bonfires, spending time with family and friends, eating festive food, dancing and collecting gifts. In houses that have recently had a marriage or childbirth, Lohri celebrations are at its peak as the festival is marked with great pomp and festivities.

Lohri Significance

Folk dances like Bhangra and Gidda are performed to the beat of the dhol, adding vibrancy to the celebration. The festival of Lohri is incomplete without traditional Punjabi delicacies like makki di roti and sarson da saag, rewri, gajak, and til ladoos. Lohri holds great importance for farmers. In Punjab, Lohri is marked by eating sheaves of roasted corn from the new harvest.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 07:40 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 13, 2025
Maghi 2025 Date and Historical Significance of Chali Mukte: Traditions and Celebrations of the Special Festival That Coincides With Lohri

Maghi is a significant festival celebrated on the day following the Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti and coincides with the widely observed festival of Lohri. Predominantly celebrated in Punjab, Maghi holds great cultural importance for the Sikh community. This day is not just about festivities but also serves as a solemn occasion to honour the heroic sacrifices made by Sikh warriors. Maghi 2025 date falls on January 13, coinciding with Lohri celebrations. Let us look more into the historical significance of Maghi that keeps the legacy of Chali Mukte alive to date. We will understand the traditions and celebrations associated with the Maghi festival. Lohri 2025 Date and Dulla Bhatti Lohri Story in Punjabi Video: From First Lohri Celebrations to Significance, Everything You Need To Know About the Harvest Festival.

Maghi 2025 Date

Maghi in 2025 will be celebrated on January 13. It is always observed on the day following Makar Sankranti and is tied to the harvest season. Maghi’s timing aligns with the cold winter months, bringing with it a sense of renewal and hope as the season shifts towards spring.

Maghi Historical Significance

Maghi commemorates the bravery of the Chali Mukte (Forty Liberated Ones), a group of Sikh soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Mughal Empire’s attack on Guru Gobind Singh and his followers. The heroic incident, known as the Battle of Muktsar, occurred on December 29, 1705, according to the Julian calendar. When converted to the Gregorian calendar, this date corresponds to January 9, 1706, which happened to fall on Lohri that year. Maghi thus serves as a day to honour these martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending their faith and the Guru.

The day of Maghi is traditionally marked by visits to Gurdwaras, where Sikhs gather to pray, meditate, and reflect on the valour of these forty soldiers. A large public gathering known as Mela Maghi takes place in Muktsar, Punjab, where devotees come together to participate in rituals and pay their respects.

Maghi: Traditions and Celebrations

One of the key traditions of Maghi is the preparation and consumption of Kheer, a sweet rice porridge made with milk, which symbolizes prosperity and good health. Families come together to share this dish, and it is often enjoyed after morning prayers at the Gurdwara. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

In addition to the solemn remembrance of the Chali Mukte, Maghi coincides with Lohri, another major festival celebrated in the region. Lohri marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of the agricultural harvest season. Traditionally, it is a time for families and communities to gather around bonfires, singing songs, dancing, and enjoying the warmth of the fire. The bonfire, symbolic of the Sun god Surya, is a prayer for sunlight and warmth as the long winter days give way to the promise of spring.

Lohri also marks an important milestone in the agricultural calendar, as it is tied to the harvest of the Rabi crops. Farmers celebrate the successful completion of the harvest, and the day is seen as an occasion to honour the hard work of the farming community. Rent is typically collected on this day, signalling the beginning of the new fiscal year according to the Bikrami calendar, further solidifying the festival’s deep agricultural roots.

Legacy of Chali Mukte Maghi

Maghi is more than just a festival; it is a day of profound remembrance and joy. It honours the sacrifices of the Chali Mukte, who gave their lives for their faith, and celebrates the agricultural cycle that sustains communities.

As Maghi aligns with Lohri, it also marks the triumph of light and warmth over the cold, as people celebrate with music, dance, and traditional dishes. This powerful blend of spiritual reverence and joyous celebration makes Maghi a unique and cherished festival in the Punjabi and Sikh cultural calendar.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 06:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 13, 2025
Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Know Tilkut Chauth Puja Vidhi, Significance, Traditions and Celebrations Related to Sankatahara Chaturthi Festival
Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Moonrise Time: Sakat Chauth, also known as Tilkut Chauth and Sankatahara Chaturthi, an important Hindu festival, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is observed primarily by women for the well-being, long life, and prosperity of their children. The day holds great significance, as it is believed that fasting on Sakat Chauth brings happiness and success to the lives of children, protecting them from misfortune and ensuring their bright future. Also known by other names like Tilkuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, and Maghi Chauth, the festival falls on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Magh month of the Hindu lunar calendar. Sakat Chauth 2025 date falls on Friday, January 17. Let us learn more about the moonrise time on Sakat Chauth Day, significance, traditions, puja vidhi and celebrations related to the Sankatahara Chaturthi festival. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: From Republic Day to Makar Sankranti to Chinese New Year, Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year.

Sakat Chauth 2025 Date and Shubh Muhurat

For the year 2025, Sakat Chauth will be observed on January 17, with the fasting period beginning at 4:06 AM and ending on January 18 at 5:30 AM. This year, the festival falls on a Friday, which is considered especially auspicious for worship and fasting.

Moonrise Time on Sakat Chauth Day
- Sakat Chauth on Friday, January 17, 2025
- Moonrise on Sakat Chauth Day – 09:12 PM
- Chaturthi Tithi Begins – 04:06 AM on January 17, 2025
- Chaturthi Tithi Ends – 05:30 AM on January 18, 2025
Significance of Sakat Chauth

The Sakat Chauth fast is primarily observed to ensure the long life and good health of children and to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for their well-being and prosperity. It is believed that those who observe this fast with full devotion experience harmony and happiness in their children’s lives, and any obstacles or challenges they face are removed. The festival is also associated with the worship of Mata Sakat and Chandra Dev (Moon God), both of whom are believed to bring good fortune.

The fast is done with full reverence, and it is thought that women who follow the rituals with sincere devotion are granted happiness, abundance, and the protection of their children. Special offerings made during the puja include tilkut prasad (a sweet made of sesame seeds and jaggery), fruits, and flowers, all of which are presented to Lord Ganesha during the prayers.

How Sakat Chauth Is Celebrated

The rituals of Sakat Chauth are both spiritual and personal. On this day, women keep a Nirjala fast, meaning they abstain from food and water, dedicating the day entirely to worship and devotion. The fast is broken only after offering Arghya (water) to the moon in the evening, following the completion of the puja. This marks the culmination of the fast, bringing blessings and prosperity.

Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi
- Preparation of the Worship Area: Begin by setting up a clean space and placing the idol or image of Lord Ganesha on a wooden stand.
- Ganesh Puja: Apply a tilak (mark) on the forehead of the idol of Lord Ganesha to honour him. Offer flowers, especially marigolds, and other sacred offerings, such as fruits and sweets, to the deity.
- Offering Tilkut: Tilkut, a special sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery, holds significant importance on this day. It is offered as part of the prasad (blessed food) to Lord Ganesha.
- Lighting the Lamp: A ghee lamp should be lit as part of the puja, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the arrival of light (knowledge and prosperity).
- Recite Ganesh Chalisa: Chanting the Ganesh Chalisa and other prayers dedicated to Lord Ganesha invokes his blessings for the well-being of the children and the family.
- Arti and Conclusion: End the puja with the Aarti of Lord Ganesha, followed by wishes for happiness, success, and prosperity. It is important to pray for the protection and bright future of the children during the concluding part of the rituals.
Traditional Offerings and Celebrations

The offerings during Sakat Chauth primarily include sesame seeds, jaggery, sugarcane, and fruits, which are placed on the altar as part of the puja. Sesame seeds and jaggery are considered sacred and are said to purify the atmosphere and bring prosperity. After the puja, the prasad is shared with family members and friends as a symbol of goodwill and affection.

Besides fasting and worship, Sakat Chauth is also a time for social gatherings, especially in rural areas. Women often come together to observe the fast, perform the rituals, and share the offerings with each other, strengthening their bonds of friendship and community. Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha Video: Celebrate Lambodara Sankashti Chaturthi by Worshipping Lord Ganesha With Utmost Devotion (Watch).

Sakat Chauth is a festival of faith, hope, and devotion, where the primary focus is on the welfare of children and the family. Through prayers, fasting, and rituals, devotees seek blessings for the health, happiness, and prosperity of their loved ones. By honouring Lord Ganesha and observing the traditional practices, the festival brings positivity and harmony into the lives of those who participate. Whether celebrated as Tilkuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, or Maghi Chauth, Sakat Chauth remains a cherished occasion for families to unite in prayer and gratitude, ensuring a blessed and prosperous future for their children.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 02:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
January 12, 2025
Magh Bihu 2025 Date in Assamese Calendar: Which Day Is Uruka? Know Names of 7 Days of Magh Bihu, Significance, Traditions and Celebrations, Know All About Bhogali Bihu

Magh Bihu 2025 Date in Assamese Calendar: The Bihu festivals are an integral part of Assamese culture, with three distinct types celebrated throughout the year: Bohag Bihu, Magh Bihu, and Kati Bihu. Each of these festivals is unique and carries its own cultural significance. Bohag Bihu, for instance, marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the agricultural season, while Kati Bihu signals the completion of sowing and transplanting rice. On the other hand, Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, celebrates the end of the harvest season, a time to rejoice in the fruits of hard labour. The main day, Magh Bihu 2025 date, falls on Wednesday, January 15, but what about Magh Bihu 2025 Uruka as per the Assamese calendar? The first day of Magh Bihu is known as Uruka or the Bihu Eve. What are the seven days of Magh Bihu? Let’s dive deep into the significance, traditions and celebrations related to the harvest festival of Assam. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

Magh Bihu stands out as a festival that deeply honours the efforts of the farming community. It is a time of gratitude for the bountiful harvest and is marked by joyful feasts, the lighting of bonfires, and the participation in cultural games. As a tribute to the God of Fire, the festival is also a prayer for the coming year to bring prosperity and continued success.

Magh Bihu 2025 Date

Magh Bihu is celebrated on the final day of the Assamese month of Puh, which in 2025 falls on January 15. This festival is symbolic of the arrival of spring, a season that brings nature to life with colourful blossoms. The day is not just a festival but also a regional holiday in Assam, offering people time to celebrate and reflect.

Magh Bihu 2025 Uruka Date

The first day of Magh Bihu is known as Uruka. It is also known as the Bihu Eve, as it is celebrated a day before the main festival day. Magh Bihu 2025 Uruka date falls on Tuesday, January 14.

Seven Days of Magh Bihu

1. Bhogali Uruka: The eve of Magh Bihu, when families gather to feast and build Meji structures around a bonfire.

2. Magh Bihu: The central day of the festival, when people light the Meji to symbolise the renewal of the agricultural cycle.

3. Goru Bihu: A day to honour cattle, who are important for farming.

4. Manuh Bihu: A day to emphasise social bonds and greetings.

5. Kutum Bihu: A day to seek blessings from elders.

6. Mela Bihu: A day to engage in cultural events and fairs.

7. Chera Bihu: The final day of the celebration, when the Meji is dismantled, and its ashes are scattered in the fields as fertiliser.

Magh Bihu 2025: Traditions, Celebrations & Significance

In earlier times, the festivities surrounding Magh Bihu would span an entire month, but in modern times, they have evolved into a week-long event, with the main celebration taking place on a single day. The eve of Magh Bihu, known as Uruka, is when the celebrations begin. This night is filled with joyous activity, with the sounds of the traditional Dhols (drums) setting the atmosphere for the occasion. People gather to cook together, enjoy hearty meals, and celebrate around a large bonfire.

Uruka – Significance in Magh Bihu Celebrations

One of the fun-filled traditions of Uruka is the playful act of stealing vegetables from neighbouring gardens. This mischievous custom, though lighthearted, adds a sense of community spirit and camaraderie to the festival.

The main day of Magh Bihu, however, begins at dawn with a special post-harvest ceremony called “Meji.” On this day, people gather around bonfires in the fields, offering prayers to their ancestors and gods for blessings and good fortune in the future. A unique aspect of the Meji ritual is the collection of half-burnt firewood from the bonfire. Participants take these pieces of wood home and throw them at fruit trees, believing it will bring positive outcomes for the harvest in the following year.

As the day progresses, the festival transforms into a cultural spectacle. Music fills the air as people participate in traditional performances. The celebration includes a variety of engaging traditional games such as cockfighting, buffalo races, nightingale singing contests, and egg-throwing. These activities, combined with feasting and merriment, create an atmosphere of celebration and unity that is central to Magh Bihu.

This festive spirit, filled with cultural pride and gratitude for the harvest, continues to be a vital part of Assamese tradition, and Magh Bihu remains one of the most cherished festivals in Assam.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 02:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 12, 2025
Lohri 2025 Date and Celebrations: Why Is Popcorn and Other Food Items Thrown Into Bonfire? Know Meaning, Origin, Rituals and Traditions of the Harvest Festival of Punjab

Lohri is a vibrant harvest festival celebrated every year in parts of North India, especially Punjab. Lohri 2025 falls on Monday, January 13. It marks the end of the winter season and the arrival of the harvest season in India. During Lohri, people gather around a bonfire and sing traditional songs and perform traditional dances like bhangra and gidda in colourful attire, and play the dhol. The festival is a time for gatherings and joy and for expressing gratitude for a good harvest, especially of crops like sugarcane. In order to give thanks, people offer various items and sweets to the fire. Families and friends come together and celebrate warmth, prosperity, and the beginning of a new season. Here’s all you need to know about the festivals. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

Lohri 2025 Date

Lohri 2025 falls on Monday, January 13.

Lohri Rituals

There are many rituals associated with the festival. During Lohri, people assemble around a bonfire and sing traditional folk songs. They perform traditional dances like the gidda and bhangra. They also offer prayers and give thanks to the sun and fire for a good harvest. The final ritual is to light the bonfire and toss sweets, sesame seeds, popcorn, jaggery, and sugar candies into it.

Why Is Popcorn and Other Food Items Thrown Into Bonfire?

Throwing good items like popcorn, jaggery, revdi, peanuts, and other offerings into the bonfire has religious meaning. It is a way of showing thanks to nature while welcoming the new year and letting go of the past.

Lohri Thali Ki Food Items

The Lohri Ki Thali is a traditional plate of tasty dishes that represent togetherness, prosperity, and abundance. It usually includes dishes like sarson da saag, gud chikki, til and gur delicacies, makki di roti, gajak, dahi bhalle, rewri, aloo ghobi, moongfali, panjiri and a lot more.

Lohri Origins

There are many stories related to the harvest festival, but the most famous one is about Dalla Bhatti. He was a hero from Punjab who fought against the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Because of his bravery, he became a hero for the people of Punjab. Many Lohri songs include words that thank him for his acts of courage.

Lohri Significance

Lohri is a very significant festival, as it is a time for people to give thanks for a good harvest. The festival symbolises the warmth of the sun and the joy of new beginnings. It is also a time for families and friends to come together and share food, sing songs, and dance to celebrate. When Is Lohri 2025? Know Date, Lohri Sankranti Time, Traditions and Significance To Celebrate the Harvest Festival of Punjab.

May this Lohri bring happiness, warmth, and prosperity to everyone! On that note, here’s wishing everyone a celebration filled with laughter and joy. Happy Lohri 2025!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 09, 2025 05:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 9, 2025
When Is Lohri 2025? Know Date, Lohri Sankranti Time, Traditions and Significance To Celebrate the Harvest Festival of Punjab

Lohri is the annual harvest festival that is celebrated by the Sikh and Hindu Punjabis across the country. Lohri 2025 will be commemorated on January 13. The celebration of Lohri is particularly grand across Punjab and is marked with delicious delicacies, grand festivities and harmonious dance and songs. Lohri celebrates the end of winter season and marks the beginning of longer days. It is therefore marked after the winter solstice. As we prepare to celebrate Lohri 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Lohri and its significance. Makar Sankranti 2025 Calendar: Know Dates of Pongal, Magh Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi Parv and More To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in India.

When is Lohri 2025? Date and Lohri Sankranti Time

Lohri 2025 will be celebrated on January 13. The celebration of Lohri is usually marked on the night before Makar Sankranti. Its date is therefore dependent on the Hindu calendar. The celebration of Lohri is one day before Maghi (Makar Sankranti) and its date is determined as per Hindu Solar calendar. It is interesting to note that the date of Lohri has predominantly been the same, however it changes every 70 years. Lohri date has consistently been on January 13 or January 14 in the 21st century. The Lohri Sankranti time is at 09:03 AM on January 14. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year.

Lohri Traditions and Significance

Lohri is known as one of the most prominent harvest festivals that marks the beginning of the longer days and celebrates the end of winter. It is therefore marked by lighting a bonfire, which is revered. People also offer special delicacies to the bonfire and indulge in an evening of songs and dance with family and friends. Lohri is an official holiday in Punjab, Jammu and Himachal Pradesh, but is also marked with great fervour and enthusiasm in Haryana and Delhi. According to folklore, in ancient times Lohri was celebrated at the end of the traditional month when winter solstice occurs.

Lohri songs have an integral theme around the folklores surrounding the festival, including a heavy prominence of the story of Dulla Bhatti. As a part of Lohri celebrations, children go around homes singing the traditional folk songs of Lohri with “Dulla Bhatti” name included. We hope that Lohri 2025 brings with it warmth and togetherness to you and your family.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 09, 2025 10:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 9, 2025