MANDI (Munish Sood)
Himachal Pradesh, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals, is witnessing a quiet yet significant change. The age-old ways of celebrating festivals like Lohri are fading under the growing influence of modern lifestyles and technology.
Traditionally, Lohri was not just a festival but a celebration of togetherness and community bonding. Children would eagerly prepare for the festival in advance, forming groups and visiting homes in their neighborhoods to sing folk songs.
In return, they would be given grains, sweets and small gifts. It was a time of joy where traditions were passed down through songs and stories.
However, the advent of television, mobile phones and other digital distractions has drastically altered this picture. Today, children prefer staying indoors, watching their favourite shows or playing games on their gadgets, rather than stepping out to sing Lohri songs.
Parental restrictions and busy modern schedules further contribute to the decline of this vibrant tradition.
Growing impact of western culture
Gone are the days when the streets of Himachal’s villages echoed with the laughter and songs of children during Lohri.
Even in areas like Chamba where unique customs tied to Lohri and Makar Sankranti have been celebrated for centuries, the participation is dwindling. What was once a lively and colourful tradition now struggles to survive in the face of changing times.
Experts believe that the growing influence of western culture and the fast-paced modern lifestyle are the primary reasons behind the fading traditions.
Dr Jagdish Sharma, a cultural historian from Himachal Pradesh, emphasises the need to revive these customs. “To preserve our festivals like Lohri, we must embrace our cultural roots and limit the overwhelming influence of westernisation,” he says.
The shift from community-based celebrations to individualistic lifestyles has not only affected the traditions but also eroded the social bonds that these festivals once fostered.
The joy of sharing, singing and celebrating together has been replaced by isolated celebrations confined to homes.
Some villages sticking onto customs
Despite these changes, some villages in Himachal Pradesh still hold onto their customs. In regions with heavy snowfall, the festival of Maghi, celebrated over three to four days, continues with traditional dances, songs and local delicacies like siddu.
Such efforts offer a glimmer of hope for the survival of these traditions. Communities and cultural leaders are now urging people to take conscious steps to revive these festivals.
Encouraging children to participate, organising community events and celebrating in traditional ways could help restore the spirit of these festivals.
The fading traditions of Himachal Pradesh serve as a stark reminder of how modernity can erode cultural heritage. Festivals like Lohri are not just about rituals but also about connecting with one’s roots and building a sense of community.
If collective efforts are not made to preserve these centuries-old customs, future generations may only read about them in books, losing a vital link to their cultural identity.
