Lohri is celebrated one day before Makar Sankranti based on the Hindu Solar calendar. It is a popular winter folk festival celebrated in Northern India to mark the passing of winter and welcome the beginning of longer days and the harvest season.

During Lohri celebrations revelers light bonfires, sing songs, dance the bhangra and gidda to the beat of the dhol, and socialize around the fire. Children even go around homes singing traditional folk songs and receive snacks or money for their performances—much like the tick-or-treating done on Halloween.

People wear clothes and there is a general atmosphere of joy and festivity. Special food items like Gajak, Sarson da saag with makki di roti, til rice, tilcholi, peanuts, puffed rice with jaggery, etc are prepared.

The bonfires are lit at sunset and people toss sesame seeds, jaggery, sugar candy, and rewaries into the fire. Some perform prayers and go around the fire. Hindus pour milk and water into the bonfire to thank the Sun God and seek his protection.

The festival of Lohri has close ties with nature— whether it’s observing and celebrating the change of seasons, the bounty of earth’s resources, or food that we grow and consume. What better way to celebrate nature and honor the planet than by making our celebrations greener and more eco-friendly? With plenty of sustainable options and green alternatives for everything from gifts to eco-friendly home decor, going green is easier than ever.

Here are a few ways in which you can incorporate sustainable decor into your festive celebrations.

• Choose eco-friendly materials:
  Use sustainable products and materials like recycled paper, bamboo, jute, and plant-based dyes.

• Use sustainable lighting:
  Say goodbye to traditional lights that consume too much energy and switch to greener options like LED or solar lights. Tea lights and fairy lights consume a fraction of the energy of traditional lights while accomplishing a similar effect.

• DIY decorations for Lohri:
  Bring out your creative side and try the DIY option. Make paper lanterns or flower garlands from recycling old newspapers,  magazines, and even fabrics. Recycle old glass bottles to make vases and artistic centerpieces.

• Go natural:
  Use locally sourced flowers, leaves, and potted plants to add a touch of nature and color

• Upcycle and repurpose old items:
  Give old or unused items a new lease of life by transforming them into unique Lohri-themed decor. Colorful Dupattas can be used as table runners or sofa throws. Use old glass jars as tea light holders and clay pots and utensils for flower arrangements.

• Incorporate traditional items:
  Create a festive mood for your Lohri celebrations by decorating your home with fabrics and textiles with traditional motifs, bright colors, and ethnic prints—you can hang them on your walls as tapestries or cover and decorate your furniture with them. Use handcrafted items to reflect the spirit of Lohri.

Bonus tips for an eco-friendly Lohri

• Set Up a Sustainable Lohri Bonfire:
  If you're planning to have a bonfire as part of your Lohri celebrations, use locally sourced wood or eco-friendly logs. Ensure proper ventilation and safety measures while enjoying the warmth of the fire with your family and friends.
  
  
• Choose Sustainable Gifts:
  Share the joy of the festive season with sustainable gifts such as potted plants, organic treats, copper or steel bottles, and handmade crafts. Encourage eco-conscious practices by choosing gifts that are not only good for the planet but also thoughtful.

Tips for Reducing Waste during Celebrations:

• Use reusable plates, cups, and cutlery.
• Avoid single-use items like plastic decorations or disposable tableware.
• Always go for compostable or biodegradable alternatives instead.
• Avoid wasteful consumption of resources.
• Practice responsible disposal methods for post-festival wastes

Conclusion:

Make conscious efforts to go green this Lohri and get creative while honoring traditions and embracing modern eco-friendly values. By incorporating sustainable practices into your decorations, you can brighten your home with festive cheer and make a positive impact on the environment. Sustainable decorations can be a unique and chic way to celebrate.

Involve your family in DIY art projects and create memories that last. In today's world sustainability has become of great importance as we battle the effects of global warming. Small steps taken in the right direction can create a detrimental impact on our surroundings. Embrace an eco-friendly way of life and encourage others to do the same.

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