From ‘Veer-Zaara’ to ‘Good Newwz’: Bollywood Films That Beautifully Capture the Spirit of Lohri
As Lohri is celebrated across India, these iconic movies showcase the festival’s warmth, music, and Punjabi traditions on screen
Mumbai:
The festival of Lohri is being celebrated today across the country with traditional enthusiasm and joy, especially in Punjab and Haryana, where the festive spirit is at its peak. Lohri marks the end of harsh winters and symbolizes the arrival of the rabi harvest.
On this occasion, people light sacred bonfires and offer sesame seeds, peanuts, revri, and gajak, praying for prosperity and happiness. The air resonates with traditional folk songs and the energetic beats of bhangra, making the celebrations even more vibrant. Interestingly, Indian cinema has beautifully embraced the essence of Lohri, portraying its grand celebrations in several superhit films. Here’s a look at some notable movies that showcase Lohri festivities on the big screen:
Maachis (1996):
Directed by Gulzar, this film stars Chandrachur Singh, Tabu, Om Puri, and Jimmy Shergill and is set against the backdrop of terrorism in Punjab. An early scene in the film features a Lohri celebration, where the characters played by Chandrachur Singh and Tabu are seen singing the iconic song “Chappa Chappa.”
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995):
Directed by Aditya Chopra, this timeless classic starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol highlights Punjabi culture and family traditions. One memorable scene shows the characters celebrating Lohri, reflecting the warmth and values of Punjabi households.
Veer-Zaara (2004):
Yash Chopra’s romantic drama starring Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Amitabh Bachchan, and Hema Malini features a beautiful Lohri sequence. Zaara (Preity Zinta) visits Veer’s (Shah Rukh Khan) Punjabi village, where the entire family and villagers celebrate Lohri together, dancing and singing around the bonfire.
Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011):
Directed by Samir Karnik, this comedy-drama stars Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, and Bobby Deol. The song “Chadha De Rang” is set during Lohri celebrations, showing Bobby Deol celebrating in true Punjabi style with his love interest.
Patiala House (2011):
Directed by Nikhil Advani, the film stars Akshay Kumar and Anushka Sharma, with the late Rishi Kapoor in a key role. The movie beautifully portrays the cultural richness and festive charm of Lohri.
Son of Sardaar (2012):
Ashwni Dhir’s action-comedy stars Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjay Dutt, and Juhi Chawla. The song “Tu Kamaal Di” is filmed during Lohri celebrations in a village setting, featuring Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha dancing and flirting amid the festivities.
Good Newwz (2019):
Directed by Raj Mehta, this modern comedy-drama stars Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Kiara Advani. The song “Laal Ghaghra” captures Lohri celebrations in a contemporary style, blending family fun, festivity, and music.
These films not only entertain but also beautifully reflect the cultural richness and joyous spirit of Lohri, keeping the tradition alive through cinema.
