Introduction
Holla Mohalla is a three day long big festive event for Sikh community around the world. It is an annual event held in an open ground near Holgarh in Anandpur Sahib. This festival was initiated by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, as a way to enhance martial skills and foster a sense of unity among the community.
Holla Mohalla stands out as a celebration that encapsulates the essence of courage, camaraderie, and spirituality. Originating from the vibrant traditions of the Sikh community, this annual festival transforms the serene town of Anandpur Sahib into a spectacle of colors, fervor, and devotion.
GO TO CONTENTS
WHEN HOLLA MOHALLA CELEBRATED
On the second day of the lunar month of Chett, usually a day after the Hindu spring festival holi, Holla Mohalla is celebrated. This is a three-day-long event that usually falls in the month of March.
for more information on holi read HOLI 2024 Dive into the festival of colours
DATE: 25th march to 27th march 2024
The exact date varies each year based on the Sikh Nanakshahi calendar.
HISTORY
The term “Holla” is derived from the Punjabi word ‘Halla,’ meaning a challenge or a charge. Together the words “Holla Mohalla” stand for “mock fight”. Guru Gobind Singh ( The tenth Sikh Guru ) established Holla in the spring of 1701 with the intention of developing in the Sikh warriors a sense of discipline, bravery, and combat skills . Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji improved upon this Holi celebration custom by incorporating a martial aspect and inventing Hola Mohalla, which is observed one day following Holi.
Where is Holla Mohalla Celebrated
Holla Mohalla primarily celebrated in Anandpur Sahib, a holy city in the Rupnagar district of Punjab, India. Anandpur Sahib holds immense historical significance for Sikhs, being the birthplace of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism, and the site of the Khalsa initiation by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.The city is situated on the lower spurs of the Himalayas, near the Sutlej River.
Anandpur Sahib is an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide. The city attracts a large number of devotees and visitors, especially during festivals and religious events.
GURUDWARAS IN ANANDPUR SAHIB
Places to visit Anandpur Sahib
- Kiratpur Sahib
- Virasat-e-Khalsa Sikh Museum
- Sarovar Anandpur Sahib
- Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sikh Museum
- Naina Devi Temple
- Bhakra Nangal Dam
Celebration Of Holla Mohalla
The Festival typically begins with early morning prayers at the Gurdwara, where hymns and chants resonate through the air, creating an atmosphere charged with spirituality .To celebrate holla mohalla thousands of nihangs are assemble at Anandpur sahib every year. The Nihang Singhs, known for their distinctive blue attire and weapons, play a prominent role in the festival. They show their martial skills, perform daring stunts, and participate in elaborate processions .
Holla Mohalla hosts the great procession known as “Nagar Kirtan,” during which the Sikh community proudly shows traditional weaponry like swords and spears and demonstrates their martial arts experties.
Sikhs from different walks of life come together, breaking barriers of caste, creed, and social status. This harmonious spirit is reflected in the burstiness of the festival, where every element contributes to the rich tapestry of Sikh culture.
People gather to celebrate the Sikh martial spirit creating an exciting, celebratory atmosphere.
Highlights Of Holla Mohalla
- Nihang Singh performs remarkable feats like gatka, horseback, and standing erect on two speeding horses in simulated fights to display their ancient martial arts expertise.
- A long procession called “Nagar Kirtan” organized and starts at takht Shri Kesgarh sahib accompanied by panj pyaras, war drums,nihang singhs (khalsa fauj) passes through various Gurudwaras, and terminates at takht
- Langars (community kitchens) are organized by the local people as a part of sewa. People voluntarily cook food and serve traditional cuisine in Holla Mahalla.
- 4.Besides martial arts Exhibitions and cultural events such as poetry recitations, kirtan (devotional singing), and various competitions are organized to celebrate the rich sikh culture.
- All the Gurudwaras are decorated, and community conferences are held, followed by religious functions.
CONCLUSION
This festival is a way to enhance martial skills and foster a sense of unity among the community. It is a reflection of the deep-rooted Sikh martial traditions. Holla Mohalla, not only as a religious festival but also as a celebration that promotes community harmony, cultural heritage, and the spirit of selfless service.
Very nice
Very beautiful
Very good Information
very informativ