Laurie in India (13/01)

Lori (Lori or Lohri) is celebrated annually on January 13 or 14 in North India (Punjab).

During this holiday, bonfires are lit as a symbol of the end of the harsh winter. Bonfire is associated with Lord Agni (Agni — fire). Parikrama is made around the fire — the fire is walked clockwise and the phrase is repeated: «well-being will come, and need will be expelled». After parikrama, prasad — food offered to God and gifts are distributed.

The parish of Laurie is celebrated by family members by fasting and offering gifts to each other. In the evening, a festive feast is held, usually not vegetarian. Dances and songs continue around the fire all night. On a holiday morning, children walk door to door and sing songs, demanding «ransom» — money or sweets, which is very reminiscent of the Slavic tradition of caroling.

This «redemption» is called Dulha Bhatti, and the song — is the payment for him. The day following Laurie is called Maghi, which marks the arrival of the month of Maga. On this day it is considered favorable to take a bath in the Ganges River. On this day, sweets are also prepared, usually sweet rice.

During the Lori festival, the traditional Punjabi dance Bhangra can be seen. Only men take part in the dance.

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