“Under the infinite skies, the Lohri flames rise,

A dance of warmth where winter’s chill flies,

May hopes ignite like sparking fire,

Filling hearts with joy and dreams that aspire.”

A fortnight blanketed in fog and a world wrapped in the wintry silence was woken up from its daze by the miraculous and merciful sun rays on the morning of 13th January 2025 – a reminder of how incredibly Mother Nature makes way for us to get together and revel in the joy of festivities. The corridors were abuzz with the return of our dearest students after a winter break and beaming smiles brought a glow of warmth in the chilly embrace of the season. St. Joseph’s Senior Secondary School, Chandigarh, marked the arrival of Lohri with an exuberant celebration that radiated warmth, energy, and the spirit of togetherness. The school grounds, brimming with excitement, became a colourful canvas of tradition and joy, as students, teachers, and staff came together to honor this beloved festival.

Under the bright and blue sky, the heart of the celebration was the bonfire—a symbol of light, warmth, and the triumph of good over evil. Encircled by the school community, the fire blazed brightly, casting its glow on the faces of those gathered around. The air was filled with the rhythmic beats of Bhangra, as students and teachers alike danced around the fire, their feet in sync with the pulse of the celebration. The energy was contagious; even the teachers, typically seen as the anchors of the school, embraced the lively rhythm, their movements filled with joy. Ms. Rashi captivated everyone with her poetic brilliance, presenting a heartfelt poem that eloquently encapsulated the spirit of Lohri. Her verses celebrated the harvest, gratitude, and the joy of shared traditions, leaving the audience inspired and reflective. Equally noteworthy was Ms. Lovely, whose exemplary compering added elegance and structure to the event. With her confident demeanor and meticulous attention to detail, she ensured the program unfolded seamlessly, creating an atmosphere of warmth and harmony. The celebration was further enriched by a series of student recitations—poems that spoke of the harvest season, the joy of the coming year, and the hope for prosperity. Their words echoed with youthful enthusiasm, reflecting a deep connection to the traditions that make Lohri so special.

Adding to the festivity, the traditional Boliyaan—folk songs that form an integral part of Lohri—filled the air. With every beat and every refrain, students and teachers shared a sense of camaraderie and connection, singing together in celebration of the season’s blessings. In her address to the gathering, Principal Ms. Monica Chawla eloquently spoke about the deeper significance of Lohri. With sincerity and passion, she reflected on the importance of gratitude and hard work, urging everyone to appreciate the efforts that contribute to success. “As we stand around the bonfire today, let us remember that it is not just the fire that brings light but the collective effort of each of us that makes this school, this community, shine,” she said. Her words were a call to action—reminding all present that it is through perseverance, vision, and unity that dreams are realized.

The event reached its pinnacle when students and teachers, hand in hand, danced in unison. The joy was palpable, the energy infectious, and for a brief moment, the roles of teacher and student dissolved into the shared rhythm of the dance. It was a celebration of not just tradition, but of the bonds that tie the St. Joseph’s community together—a celebration of strength and spirit.