MINDLESS MUMBAI

lohri is a predominantly north indian festival, that marks the last of the coldest days of winter. for those involved in agriculture, it marks the beginning of the harvest season; and as with many other festivals, its celebrated with different names and styles in different regions of the country.

in many of mumbai’ residential societies, the festival is celebrated with a bonfire. to the fire are offered quite a few things, the names and significance of which i am not aware of. the celebration in my society this time is a comparatively elaborate affair, complete with two (very loud) punjbai drummers and dinner for all; its being hosted by a punjabi family from the apartment, as its the first lohri of their grandson. i didn’t attend the event as i don’t agree with the way some things were done. still, it makes for a good daily-photo.

tomorrow is makar sankranti, more popularly identified as the kite-flying festival.

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oh, and the lit up tree in the centre of the bottom of the photo is a christmas tree, its decorations haven’t been removed yet :)