Lohri 2026: 5 Food Items Offered To The Lohri Bonfire And What It Signifies

It’s time to gear up for Lohri 2026 celebrations! This harvest festival marks the end of the sowing season and the harvest of rabi crops such as wheat and sugarcane. The festival also celebrates new beginnings, as the season slowly transitions into longer days and signals the end of winter. A bonfire is lit on Lohri night. The fire provides warmth and symbolises hope and a bright future. But do you know why food is offered to the flames before the celebrations begin? Keep reading to know!

5 Food Items Offered To Lohri Flames

Food items from a thaali are offered to the flames before the celebrations begin. This ritual is a way of expressing gratitude to nature and Agnidev(Sun god) for a healthy harvest. 

1. Popcorn And Peanuts

Popcorn and peanuts are among the first items offered to the Lohri fire. They are thrown into the flames to thank Agnidev for a good harvest. This offering also marks the end of winter and welcomes fresh beginnings and the new year. Traditionally, popcorn is first offered to the fire from the thali before being distributed among family and friends. 

2. Jaggery

Jaggery is another important offering made to the Lohri flames. It represents sweetness in life. By offering jaggery to the fire, people hope that the coming year will be filled with happiness and sweet moments.

3. Sugarcane

Sugarcane is one of the most significant offerings during Lohri. It is a key rabi crop harvested around this time. Offering sugarcane is a way of thanking nature and Agnidev for keeping the crops healthy. 

Also Read: From Pongal Virundhu To Lohri Buffets, 16 Harvest Special Menus Across India In 2026

4. Sesame Seeds (Til)

Sesame seeds, or items made from til, are also offered to the Lohri fire. This ritual signifies good fortune and prosperity. It is also believed to burn away negativity and make space for positive energy and fresh starts in our lives. 

5. Gajak And Rewari

Gajak and rewari, winter favourites made from jaggery and sesame seeds, are also offered to Agnidev. These foods provide warmth, nourishment, and energy. Offering them symbolises saying goodbye to the winter chill. 

Prayers Are Chanted While Offering Food To Lohri Flames

Families gather around the Lohri bonfire and take rounds clockwise while tossing these food items into the flames. Prayers are also chanted during the ritual. These food items make a crackling sound when offered to the fire, which signifies the burning away of evil or negative energy from our lives. 

For newly married couples, Lohri holds special significance. The couple takes rounds(pheras) around the bonfire together, offering sesame seeds, popcorn, peanuts, and other items. After this ritual, family members and relatives give them sagan (cash), gifts, and blessings. 

After the rituals, celebrations continue with dhol, dance, and traditional food such as sarson ka saag and makki ki roti. Sweets made with jaggery, dahi bhalla, ladoos, gajar ka halwa, pinni, and more are also enjoyed.

Also Read: 10 Winter Foods That Turn Lohri Into A Feast Worth Remembering

So, how are you celebrating Lohri 2026? 

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/  amlanmathur and @Ankitsagar_/ X