Lohri is celebrated on the 13th of January every year as an occasion to welcome new beginnings. Rinhee Suberwal, who is a choreographer, past life regression therapist, vaastu consultant, astrologer, numerologist, and crystal healer, has shared her thoughts on the festival from an astrological point of view. Here’s what she had to say:
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Join Telegram ChannelOn the day of Lohri, a bonfire is lit, and certain rituals are performed around it to symbolize letting go of the old and welcoming new beginnings. People offer items like sesame seeds, coconut, and sugar-coated treats (called batasha) into the fire. This act represents releasing negativity and embracing a fresh start.
You can either write down what you want to let go of on paper and burn it in the fire as a way of manifestation or directly offer these items into the flames with the same intention. Sharing sesame sweets like til ke laddoo with others is also a part of the tradition, marking the beginning of a positive and prosperous new year.
The year’s first full moon, Lohri, and Mahakumbh all fall on the same day. From an astrological perspective, full moons are seen as a time to let go of things in life that no longer serve us. To practice this, one can write down what they wish to release (e.g., insecurities about relationships or financial concerns) on white paper with a black pen. This exercise is said to be especially effective during the full moon as it symbolizes letting go and moving forward.Since Lohri and Mahakumbh coincide with this event, they mark a new beginning. Following this, Makar Sankranti occurs, which is a significant astrological transition. On this day, the Sun moves into Capricorn, purifying the world and signaling the end of a period called “Malmas.” This transition is seen as the start of purification and the Hindu New Year.
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Certain rituals are suggested during this time:
- Mix ingredients like haldi (turmeric), Ganga water, cow urine, lavender, and rose water. Sprinkle this mixture around your home while chanting “Har Gange” to purify the space. If possible, go to a flowing water source nearby and chant “Om Namah Shivaya” to relieve pain and difficulties.
- Engage in moon meditation to channel calmness and focus.
- If you wish to invite positive changes into your life, it is better to wait for the waxing moon phase, which occurs 15 days later.
Lastly, full moons and new moons often bring emotional imbalances. It is advised not to make major decisions 12 days before or after a full moon. While the full moon is powerful and auspicious, the emotional ups and downs it causes can make it challenging to stay grounded.
Significance of the first full moon of the year 2025:
The full moon holds significant importance, especially when it coincides with festivals like Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Mahakumbh. Together, these events mark the beginning of the Hindu New Year. During this time, it’s believed to be essential to perform rituals for cleansing and protection, as both positive and negative energies are heightened. Unfortunately, some people may use this time to perform negative rituals to harm others, like sabotaging careers or relationships. Hence, protecting one’s aura and practicing purification rituals becomes crucial.
Different regions celebrate the New Year in their unique ways, such as through festivals like Gudhi Padwa. Along with these traditions, distributing sweets and sharing positivity is common during this period. Specific rituals, like chanting mantras related to the moon or Lord Shiva, can strengthen bonds in relationships. For example, chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” or “Om Gauri Shankaraya Namah,” along with reciting the Shiva Chalisa, is believed to enhance the bond between spouses and bring harmony.
The full moon is a powerful time to let go of negativity, not just externally but also from within. It’s not just about releasing external situations but also shedding the negative aspects of your personality. Setting clear intentions during this time helps in moving forward positively. The moon is astrologically connected to the mind, and its balance reflects our emotional stability and strength to progress in life.
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For those with a weak or imbalanced moon in their birth chart, specific remedies can be beneficial during the full moon. Drinking water from a silver glass, wearing a silver chain, distributing sweets, and worshipping Lord Shiva (e.g., offering prayers to a Shiva Lingam) are all helpful practices. These acts are believed to bring balance, calmness, and positivity, allowing you to align your mind and emotions better.
