Mohali, Jan 12: Chancellor S. Gurvinder Singh Bahra led the Lohri celebrations at Rayat Bahra University today, lighting the traditional bonfire alongside senior faculty at the campus Open-Air Theatre, bringing together hundreds of students and staff members.
Marking the seasonal harvest festival through a series of rituals and cultural performances, the bonfire served as the centerpiece of the afternoon, where attendees performed traditional ceremonies symbolizing prosperity and new beginnings.
The crackling flames were met with rounds of peanuts, rewari, and gajak, as the university community danced to the beats of the dhol.
“Lohri is a time to reflect on our values of unity and cultural pride. Seeing our students connect with their roots while pursuing academic excellence is vital for holistic growth,” Chancellor S. Gurvinder Singh Bahra told the gathering.
The open-air venue transformed into a hub of Punjabi heritage as students took to the stage for high-energy Bhangra and Giddha sets. The program also featured soulful folk songs and poetry recitations that explored the artistic legacy of the region.
Group Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar joined the festivities, noting that academic institutions play a pivotal role in keeping traditions alive. “Preserving and promoting our cultural heritage is essential in a modern learning environment. It fosters a sense of gratitude and togetherness among the youth,” Dr. Kumar said during his address.
The celebration began with instrumental Punjabi music as guests arrived, setting a festive tone that lasted through the afternoon. The event wrapped up with communal dancing around the fire, reinforcing the bond between the faculty and the student body.
