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Introduction to Lohri or Maghi in Himachal Pradesh:
Lohri or Maghi is an important Fair in Himachal Pradesh. It is usually celebrated at the culmination of winter, when the winter bites are no more, and people rejoice the season amidst extensive pomp and gaiety.
The Lohri Festival is generally held to ensure fertility and prosperity. Bonfire is an integral part of the Lohri Fair that has been named after the Lohri Festival. It is a month of celebration for the people of Himachal Pradesh when new costumes are bought and amidst extensive salsa and melody the celebration ensues.
Maghi is the other name of this Festival and that is why the Fair is also named as Lohri or Maghi Fair. Since Lohri is usually celebrated during the month of Magh (January), it is also known as Maghi Festival. The Lohri or Maghi Fair is a jovial relief from the monotonous daily existence and is thus a welcome relief by the people of Himachal Pradesh.
Description of the Lohri or Maghi Fair:
The Lohri or Maghi Fair actually venerates the last sowing of the Ravi crop, a Winter Crop of North India, especially Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana. During the Lohri or Maghi Fair a bonfire is lit and men and women dance to the tune of music around it.
This bonfire is an integral part of this fair. People throw popcorn, puffed rice and sweets into this flame as a way of offering sacrifice to God, so that he in turn blesses them with a rich harvest.
Colorfully dressed men and women visit the Fair, where articles of everyday use, pottery items and foods are available in plenty. Stalls are also given for splendid cards, pictures, and attires.
It is worthwhile to mention here that the Fairs in Himachal Pradesh are important both spiritually and economically. They induce a sense of spiritual awareness and also make the state more affluent because these Fairs are frequented by numerous visitors from outside and therefore gather a huge sum of money.
Since Maghi is a grand Fair it attracts plentiful people from across the country. There is a mythology related to both the Lohri or the Maghi Fair and Lohri Festival. It is said that the sun commences its Northward journey during this time. It moves to the hemisphere of the Makar and this auspicious movement is also known as Uttarayan.
It is also said that during this time Lord Krishna manifests himself almost perceptibly. So, he can easily hear his disciple’s urge for him. Since this time is so propitious, Lohri Fair is held with tremendous zeal and enthusiasm. The Maghi Fair is thus an unforgettable experience.
Time for the celebration of the Lohri or Maghi Fair:
The Lohri or the Maghi Fair is generally held at the time of Magh, or January. It actually coincides with the Lohri Festival which occurs during Uttarayan of the Sun, or it’s Northward Sojourn.
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