New Delhi, Jan. 11 -- Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal are important festivals celebrated in different parts of India around the same time, usually in mid-January. This year, Lohri will be celebrated on January 13, Makar Sankranti on January 14 and Pongal will be celebrated rom January 14-17.

Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal are celebrated in different ways across states, but they all have the same significance as harvest festivals.

Lohri, which marks the harvest of the rabi crops and the end of winter days, is celebrated with huge fervour in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and other states. People pray for a good harvest season. The celebration involves praying to the Sun God (Surya Devta) and Fire god (agni dev) for agricultura...