13/01/2024
The science behind the food and the festival of Lohri. Read along!
Lohri, originally 'Tilohri', is made up of two words - 'Til' meaning 'sesame' and 'Rohri' meaning 'Jaggery'. Thus, these are the two main ingredients of many food items eaten on this day. Lohri is a harvest festival celebrated in northern India.
is celebrated a day before Makar Shankranti, when the day is shortest and the night is longest. Hence, walking around the bonfire, dancing and celebrating keeps our body warm and active. The fire is said to relax our bodies by reducing the blood pressure.
Sarso da saag, full of including mustard greens, , , , , is rich in iron, Vitamin C and K. Thus it is extremely good for heart and is diabetic friendly.
Makke di roti, or corn flatbread, has a lot of fiber and the two are usually eaten together.
Gajar ka Halwa, or carrot pudding, is a healthy alternative to sweets. It can be made more nutrient rich by adding jaggery instead of sugar. Full of antioxidants, fiber and vitamins it is good for digestion and cardiovascular diseases.
Gud gajak is a sweet, primarily made from jaggery and sesame seeds and has the goodness of both of them. It provides warmth to our body and boost immunity.
Makhana kheer or fox nut pudding, is good for people with arthritis. It also maintains BP, is a agent and has inflammatory properties.
Our traditional food and festivals have a lot of science behind them. Make sure to let your friends know this to. Comment below!
Here's wishing you all a very HAPPY LOHRI !
