Lohri Celebrations
Lohri Celebrations: Saree Styles That are Perfect for the Harvest Festival
30 December, 23
5 min read
30
Dec, 23
Lohri, a harvest festival celebrated primarily in North India, traces its roots to ancient folklore and cultural traditions. It marks the end of the winter solstice and the onset of longer days while also reveling in the season’s bountiful harvest. Popular in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of Jammu, Lohri has transcended regional boundaries, with people across India joining in the celebrations in recent times. With the festival around the corner, we put together a capsule of sarees just perfect for the occasion - each inspired by an element peculiar to Lohri.
Steeped In Grandeur & Tradition - Banarasi Sarees
Lohri celebrations are replete with long-standing customs and rituals that honour Mother Nature and thank her for a successful harvest. Like the harvest festival, Banarasi - a legacy weaving craft perfected through the ages - enjoys a distinct place in the hearts of tradition lovers. A motley of jewel-tone silks embellished with intricate zari work, Banarasi sarees mirror the grandeur of Lohri and serve as a classic choice for an occasion rife with food, fun, and frolic.
Style tip: Put together a regal ensemble with a monochrome saree and blouse, matched with traditional jewellery.
Hues Abundant - Bandhani Sarees
In the heart of the harvest festival lies spirited folk dances - Bhangra performed by men and Gidda by women - that add zest and zeal to the celebrations. Bandhani, the tie-dye craft of Rajasthan, has much in common with these dance forms. From vibrant greens to soulful reds, scintillating pinks, and more, the hues of Bandhani, akin to the colourful costumes of the dancers, serve up a visual feast. The tiny dot-like patterns formed from resist-dyeing, unfurl on the saree like the rhythmic sways and upbeat movements that make the dances a delight to watch.
Style tip: Experiment with unique draping styles, such as a bohemian chic or a modern pant saree.
The Rustic Charm - Tussar Silk
Among all rituals associated with Lohri, the traditional bonfire holds a special place. Symbolic of the return of longer days and abundant sunlight, this fire acts as an anchor, drawing families and communities to gather around it, socialize, and indulge in merrymaking. Tussar, the wild silk renowned for its distinct texture, echoes the rustic charm of the ritual Lohri bonfire - its inherent golden sheen comparable to the glow of the embers and the warm feel reminiscent of the comfort experienced in the company of loved ones.
Style tip: Elevate the rustic appeal with tissue blouses and chunky, oxidised metal jewellery.
An Ode To Changing Seasons - Organzas & Floral Prints
The festive air of Lohri carries with it the crispness of winter and the mellow delight of spring, whose splendid blooms are just a few weeks away. Mirroring the winter mist, the ethereal, sheer, and light-as-air organza sarees serve as the perfect accompaniment for an enchanting celebration. Printed drapes, replete with vibrant blossoms and foliage, offer a lively ensemble for the festive occasion, mimicking the joyous atmosphere and acting as a nod to the season that is about to arrive.
Style tip: Complete the look with a contrast, solid-coloured blouse to let the prints and gossamery organzas take centre stage.
A selection of sarees handpicked for the festive season is now live in our stores and website. Shop them here.