Lohri celebrated with enthusiasm in Jammu

Scoop News January 13, 2012

Jammu, January 13 (Scoop News) –Department of Tourism in collaboration with Raghunath Bazaar Business Association today celebrated Lohri Festival with great enthusiasm and fun at Raghunath Bazaar Chowk Jammu in Jammu today.

On the occasion, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Dr. Pawan Kotwal was the chief guest while as MLA East Mr. Ashok Khajuria was also present.

The 3-day Lohri festival is being organized to showcase the cultural heritage of Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner said that these events are being organized to showcase the unique cultural ethos and heritage of Jammu besides promoting cultural tourism in the State. He said Lohri is not a religious festival, but a celebration marking the end of an intense winter.

To give festive look to the city of temples, all bazaars have been illuminated by different Bazaars business associations and prize in the shape of trophies would also be given for best illumination and traditional decoration.

Huge bonfires are lit in the Raghunath Mandir Chowk and people gathered around the rising flames, circle around (parikrama) the bonfire and throw puffed rice, popcorn and other munchies into the fire.

Other attractions of the day were ethnic food stalls and cultural items, illumination of Raghunath Bazaar, food stalls by Hotel Association, Private parties and JKTDC.

Among others, Director Tourism, Mr. R. S. Mehta, Provincial President National Conference Mr. Rattan Lal Gupta, President Raghunath Bazaar Association Mr. Surinder Mahajan, President Chamber of Commerce Mr. Y. V. Sharma, prominent citizens, officers of Tourism and other concerned departments and a large number of people were present on the occasion.

Air force school Jammu celebrated Lohri at nursery wing with great enthusiasm as it’s a festival of joy and happiness which heralds spring. The teachers and students took a break from their busy schedule and got together to celebrate the onset of the new month.

The earth farthest from the sun at this point of time starts its journey towards the sun thus ending the coldest month of the year. A bon fire was lit which signifies spark of life and prayers were offered for prosperity in life. To this bonfire puffed rice, pop corn and other munches were offered. Students danced around the bonfire on the tune.