Dulla Bhatti’s story begins in 16th-century Pindi Bhattian, where his father Farid led a rebellion against the Mughals but was executed. After learning the truth about his father’s sacrifice, Dulla raised an army, targeting Mughal caravans and landlords, and redistributing wealth to the poor. His defiance earned him the title of a ‘social bandit’ and made him a symbol of resistance in Punjab.
Dulla Bhatti became known for rescuing young girls from abduction and forced marriages, ensuring they married with dignity and security. His most famous act involved saving a girl named Mundri from a zamindar and arranging her marriage on Lohri. This story became the basis of the popular Lohri song, Sunder Mundariye, symbolising honour and justice.
Dulla Bhatti’s rebellion eventually led to his capture. The Mughals executed him in Lahore on March 29, 1599. Despite his tragic end, Dulla Bhatti’s story lives on as a symbol of courage, justice, and humanity. His story reminds us that the essence of the Lohri festival isn’t merely in its rituals but in its spirit – the spirit of resistance, generosity, and community.