In Punjab Holi is connected with the Guru Gobind Singh Ji and celebrated as Hola Mohalla ਹੋਲਾ ਮਹੱਲਾ (Holi of the Brave). Devotees reach Sri Anandpur Sahib, large processions are carried out, Nihang Sikhs showcase their traditional fighting spirit and art. Everyone is wishing each other, spreading colors and having delicacies.
Hola Mohalla means ‘Practice of War-Skills’ which showcase their spirit & enthusiasm. Hola Mohalla Holi is celebrated as a symbol of Manhood i.e. also called “Holi of the Brave“.
How is the Hola Mohalla festival celebrated ?
Hola Mohalla or Holi festival is celebrated in Punjab for 3 days. It starts with the early morning prayers at Gurudwara and then after everyone starts playing Holi. And after that people gather at ‘Charan Ganga Stadium’ where festivities begin. During the Hola Mohalla festival Nihang Sikhs display their traditional fighting skills, stunts and many acts.
Major Attractions
- Horsemanship
- Sword fighting, mock battles, martial art
- Motorbikes stunts – even blindfolded, Jeeps
- Display of moving Chakri
- Traditional ethnic attires – Tall Turbans rise above ahead, traditional Chainmail
- Playing with Colour
- Huge Procession carried out at Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib
- Kirtans and Poetry competitions are held
- Camping (groups set up camp all across city)
The center point of this Hola Mohalla festival celebration is at Sri Anandpur Sahib (Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib), Rupnagar, Punjab, India. Kirtans are held at Gurudwaras, Langar Seva are held and you should try ‘Thandai’ during festivities (made with rose water, poppy seeds, sugar, milk, spices). There are also many Best Places you can visit across states where many fairs, Parties and concerts are organized during Holi like Amritsar, Patiala, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Bhatinda, Jalandhar and more.
History of Hola Mohalla Festival ?
In the 17th century, 10th Sikh Guru – Guru Gobind Singh Ji started the Hola Mohalla festival. It was first organized with the procession at Chet Wadi in Anandpur. Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted to create a community of warriors who are not skilled in battle but also self-disciplined and spiritual. In 1700, it was done to prevent a serious backlash against the Imperial Power after the Battle of Ninhogra. And this festival is a celebration of spirit, showcases the values of Sikh community and is celebrated with many activities and events.
How to reach Sri Anandpur Sahib ?
Sri Anandpur Sahib is well connected by road with many major cities Delhi, Chandigarh via NH3. The nearest Railway Station is Nangal Dam Railway Station (around 20 Km away) and the nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport (around 88 Km away).
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FAQs
When is Hola Mohalla 2024 date ?
This year Hola Mohalla 2024 will be celebrated from 25 -27 March 2024 at Sri Anandpur Sahib (Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib) alongwith across the Punjab state.
What are the 5 Takhts (Panj Takht) of Sikhism ?
Takhat means a throne or the seat of authority. Panj Takht are 5 major important Gurudwaras of Sikhs of which 3 are in Punjab (1.Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Amritsar, 2.Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib or Sri Anandpur Sahib, Rupnagar, 3.Takht Sri Damdama Sahib – Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda) and 1 in Bihar – Takht Sri Patna Sahib and 1 in Maharashtra – Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded.
What is Hola Mohalla means ?
Hola Mohalla means ‘Practice of War-Skills’ and showcase their spirit & enthusiasm. Holi is celebrated as a symbol of Manhood i.e. also called ‘Holi of the Brave’.