New Delhi, Jan 13 (IANS) Despite biting cold, hundreds of Delhi residents Tuesday night came out of their houses and sat around bonfires lit in various parts of the capital to celebrate Lohri, the festival which marks the harvesting time in the fields of the country. People danced to the beats of dhols with favourite Punjabi Bollywood number played in the background. Traditionally, Lohri is celebrated on a grand scale by families that have a newlywed couple or a newborn child.

“The fire is lit and everyone goes around it offering til (sesame seeds), gud (jaggery) and ground nuts to the fire praying for prosperity and peace throughout the year,” said Satwant Kaur, a resident of Rajouri Garden in west Delhi.

The festival is known for increasing brotherhood and nurturing good relationship among neighbours as people of a neighbourhood come together at one place to celebrate it.

“We invite all our neighbours, irrespective of whether they are Punjabis or non-Punjabis, and it gives us an opportunity to know them better,” said Manjeet Singh, who is celebrating first Lohri of his newly born grandson.

People eat rewadi, a preparation made of sesame seeds and jaggery, ground nuts and popcorn to keep themselves warm in the cold winter.

Farmers in Punjab celebrate Lohri because by this time in January, their fields are ready with Rabi crops. It also marks the beginning of new month according to the Hindu calender.