Sundri & Mundri's Lohri Adventure - History & Activities

Explore Traditional Lohri Celebrations in Punjab

Experience the vibrant festivities of Lohri with these videos showcasing traditional celebrations in Punjab,
including the iconic Sunder Mundriye song, sung around the Lohri bonfire.

A child’s animated rendition of Sunder Mundriye, the classic song of Lohri.

Children gather around the bonfire, singing Sunder Mundriye in a traditional Lohri celebration.

Watch adults sing Sunder Mundriye during a lively Lohri bonfire celebration.

The Story of Dulla Bhatti: Punjab’s Robin Hood

Dulla Bhatti, often known as the “Robin Hood of Punjab,” was a legendary figure during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Born in the 16th century in Pindi Bhattian, now in Pakistan, Dulla bravely fought against the injustices inflicted on his people, particularly the exploitation and oppression faced by farmers and villagers. He became a hero by rebelling against Mughal tax collectors who imposed unfair taxes and by protecting Punjabi girls who were at risk of being abducted and sold.

Dulla Bhatti is especially celebrated for rescuing two young girls, Sundri and Mundri, who were being forced into marriages. He not only saved them but also arranged their marriages and provided dowries, taking on the role of an elder brother to them. The popular Lohri song, Sunder Mundriye Ho, commemorates this act of bravery and kindness, making him an enduring symbol of justice, courage, and community spirit in Punjabi culture.

For a deeper understanding of Dulla Bhatti’s life and his significance in Punjabi folklore, you can explore the following resources:

These articles provide comprehensive insights into his life, his rebellion against Mughal rule, and his lasting impact on Punjabi culture and the Lohri festival.

Tips for Parents: Bringing the Story of Sundri and Mundri to Life

  1. Use Storytelling Techniques: Recreate the magic of Sundri and Mundri’s journey as they’re portalled through Badi Ma’s shawl into the village of Bhattian. Use expressions, voice changes, and gestures to bring the adventure to life, capturing your child’s imagination.

  2. Highlight Values: Emphasize values like bravery, kindness, and fairness, as embodied by Dulla Bhatti. Use real-life examples to show how these values are relevant today.

  3. Encourage Curiosity: Invite questions about the story’s setting, historical background, and culture. Lohri traditions help Punjabis around the world stay connected to their heritage.

  4. Connect Themes to Modern Life: Relate the story’s values—like the Smart Sisters sharing knowledge with villagers or Dulla Bhatti’s protection of the sisters—to situations in modern life.

  5. Make It Interactive: Encourage children to retell the story in their own words or act it out. This helps deepen understanding and keeps them actively engaged.

  6. Teach Through Comparisons: Compare Dulla Bhatti to other heroes or characters to make his story more relatable for young minds.

  7. Discuss Morals Openly: Ask reflective questions like, “What do you think about Dulla Bhatti’s actions?” to spark thought and personal reflection.

  8. Personalize the Lesson: Share family stories or ancestral tales that highlight similar values, helping children feel a deeper connection to their identity.

  9. Follow Up with Creative Activities: Encourage drawing scenes, writing a “modern version” of the story, or creating crafts. You could even write a new story ending together! (See Section 3 for coloring activities.)

Coloring Activities:

COMING SOON!

Stay tuned for my upcoming children’s stories:

For the latest news on my upcoming children’s stories, click here!