Lohri of Faith Burning Bright in Mumbai for 24 Years

Mumbai (Anil Bedaag): Amid Mumbai’s relentless pace of life, when songs echo around a sacred fire and the rhythm of gidda and bhangra fills the air, one knows that the soul of Punjab is alive and breathing. Such was the vibrant and moving spectacle at the 24th grand Lohri celebration held at Gurudwara 4 Bangla, Andheri, where faith, culture, and collective joy came together to create history.
With over 2,000 people from diverse communities and backgrounds participating, the celebration firmly established itself as Mumbai’s largest public Lohri gathering. More than just a festival, it stood as an emotional commitment to preserving traditions far from one’s homeland.
This remarkable legacy began in 2002, envisioned by Late Sardar Singh Suri, the then President of Gurudwara 4 Bangla. His dream was to create a “home away from home” for the Punjabi community living in Mumbai—an inclusive space where generations could gather around the sacred fire and pass on their cultural values, faith, and sense of belonging.
Today, this cherished tradition is being carried forward with deep dedication by his son, Jaspal Singh Suri, the current President. Under his leadership, the celebration has grown grander each year, while its core spirit and traditions have remained beautifully intact. Held in the open ground behind the Gurudwara, the event welcomed people across religions and communities. In keeping with Sikh values of equality, prasad was distributed to all, featuring traditional Lohri offerings such as rewri and gajak, along with a warm community meal of bread pakoras, jalebis, pulao, and milk.
The sacred Lohri bonfire, vibrant fireworks, and energetic bhangra performances infused the evening with warmth and celebration. A special performance by renowned artist Jaggi Sandhu further elevated the festive spirit. The smooth execution and arrangements of the event were strongly supported by the active involvement of Sardar Maninder Singh Suri.
Sharing his emotions on the occasion, Jaspal Singh Suri said, “Lohri is a festival of gratitude, unity, and hope. It marks the end of winter and celebrates the joy of a new harvest. My father started this tradition to keep our heritage alive in a fast-paced city like Mumbai, and seeing thousands come together today is the true success of his vision.”
This 24-year journey stands as a powerful reminder that with devotion, collective effort, and commitment, traditions can flourish anywhere in the world. Gurudwara 4 Bangla has become a shining example of how culture, when nurtured with love, continues to burn bright—just like the sacred Lohri fire itself.