Lohri festival is celebrated on the 13th of January to welcome the onset of spring season and the end of the winter season. The people of Jammu have close association with the neighboring state of Punjab, which is reflected in their festivals and customs. Lohri, the festival that marks the end of winter, is celebrated with singing and dancing around huge bonfires. This festival is also known as Makar Sankranti.


It is celebrated mainly at night, when people gather round the bonfires. Sweets, puffed rice and popcorn are thrown into the flames and the fire is worshipped. The day of Lohri, in the Hindu month of Paush or Magh, is very auspicious as it marks the entry of Surya (sun) in the 'Makar Rashi' (northern hemisphere).

The whole of Jammu region wears a festive look on this day. Thousands take a dip in the holy rivers. 'Havan Yagnas' light up nearly every house and temple in Jammu. In the rural areas, custom requires boys to go around asking for gifts from newly-weds and new parents. A special dance called the 'Chajja' dance is held on the occasion of Lohri.


It makes a striking picture to see boys along with their 'Chajjas' elaborately decorated with coloured paper and flowers move on the street in a dancing procession. The whole atmosphere comes alive with the pulsating drum beats.