Lohri in Amritsar is not just a festival; it is a sensory explosion of crackling bonfires, rhythmic Dhol beats, and the irresistible aroma of winter delicacies. As the city gears up to celebrate the harvest on January 13, 2026, one name remains synonymous with the authentic taste of Punjab: Novelty Sweets.
Located at the iconic Novelty Chowk on Lawrence Road, Novelty Sweets has been the heartbeat of Amritsari festivities for over seven decades. Here is your guide to elevating your Lohri celebrations with the finest novelty treats the city has to offer.
Why Novelty Sweets is the Hub of Lohri in Amritsar
In a city obsessed with food, Novelty Sweets stands out for its commitment to 100% pure desi ghee and time-honored recipes. For Lohri, they curate a specialized menu that reflects the agricultural richness of Punjab, focusing on ingredients like jaggery (gur), sesame seeds (til), and premium nuts.
1. Traditional Must-Haves: Gajak and Rewari
No Lohri bonfire is complete without the ritual of offering Til-Gul to the fire. Novelty Sweets offers:
Special Alsi Rewari: Crispy, bite-sized sugar and sesame drops that provide the perfect crunch.
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Gur Gajak: A rich, brittle fudge made from premium jaggery and roasted sesame, known for its deep, earthy sweetness.
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Peanut Chikki: High-quality roasted peanuts set in golden jaggery, a favorite for children and adults alike.
2. The Iconic Amritsari Pinni
If Lohri had a signature winter dessert, it would be the Pinni. Novelty Sweets is legendary for its:
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Amritsari Atta Pinni: Made with whole wheat flour, slow-roasted in desi ghee, and loaded with dry fruits.
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Alsi Pinni: A nutrient-dense variant featuring flaxseeds, perfect for the chilly January nights.
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Kaju Pinni: A luxurious twist for those who prefer a richer, nuttier profile.
3. Signature Novelty Creations
Beyond the basics, the shop introduces "Novelty" to tradition with:
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Special Bhugga: A Lohri staple made of khoya and sesame seeds, unique to the Punjab region.
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Lahori Patisa: Their world-famous flaky, melt-in-your-mouth gram flour sweet that has been a best-seller since 1947.
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Gur ka Halwa: A warm, comforting semolina pudding sweetened with jaggery instead of sugar.
Essential Tips for Lohri Shopping in Amritsar
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Visit Early: The Lawrence Road branch becomes extremely crowded on the 12th and 13th of January. Aim to pick up your hampers a couple of days in advance.
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Check Online Availability: Novelty Sweets now offers online ordering with delivery across Amritsar, making it easier to skip the queues.
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Don't Forget the Savories: Balance the sweetness with their famous Amritsari Papad and Mathi, which are perfect snacks for a long night of dancing.
Conclusion
Lohri is a celebration of gratitude and new beginnings. By choosing Novelty Sweets in Amritsar, you aren't just buying dessert; you are bringing home a piece of Punjab's culinary history. Whether you are tossing Rewari into the flames or sharing a box of Pinni with loved ones, ensure your 2026 celebrations are as authentic as they are sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As the bonfire lights up the sky this January 13, 2026, many have questions about celebrating Lohri with the authentic touch of Amritsar. Here are the most common queries answered.
General Festival Questions
1. When exactly is Lohri 2026? Lohri will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. It always falls a day before Makar Sankranti, marking the sun's transition and the peak of the winter harvest.
2. What is the significance of the bonfire? The bonfire symbolizes the Sun God (Surya) and the Fire God (Agni). People offer grains, sesame seeds, and sweets to the fire to seek blessings for prosperity, health, and a bountiful harvest.
3. Why is Lohri special for newborns and newlyweds? In Punjabi culture, the "First Lohri" (Pehli Lohri) is a major milestone. It is a way for the community to welcome a new member or a new bride into the family with gifts, songs, and elaborate feasts.
Sweets & Food FAQs
4. What are the must-have sweets from Novelty Sweets for Lohri?
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For the Bonfire: Alsi Rewari, Gur Gajak, and Peanut Chikki.
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For Gifting: Amritsari Pinni Special and Lahori Patisa.
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For the Feast: Special Bhugga (Til Ladoo) and Dry Fruit Panjeeri.
5. Does Novelty Sweets offer sugar-free or "No Added Sugar" options? Yes, they have a dedicated "No Added Sugar" collection. Popular choices include:
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Gud Alsi Pinni (sweetened with jaggery/stevia alternatives).
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Anjeer Khajoor Super Seeds Ladoo.
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Sugar-Free Milk Cake and Besan Burfi.
6. What is the shelf life of Amritsari Pinni and Patisa? Most dry sweets like Pinni and Lahori Patisa have a shelf life of approximately 30 days when stored in a cool, dry place. This makes them ideal for shipping to relatives outside Amritsar.
Shopping & Delivery
7. Can I order Novelty Sweets online for Lohri? Yes, you can order directly through the official Novelty Sweets website or via food delivery apps like Swiggy if you are within Amritsar. They offer free shipping on many domestic orders.
8. Is there a physical store I should visit in Amritsar? The most famous location is at Novelty Chowk, Lawrence Road. It is a landmark in the city and offers the widest variety of fresh Lohri specials.