The formal commencement of the national festival “Hola Mohalla,” a symbol of the Sikh Panth’s rising spirit (Chardi Kala) and martial valor, took place with full devotion and grandeur at Gurdwara Qila Anandgarh Sahib. On this sacred occasion, at midnight, five ancient war drums were sounded amid thunderous victory slogans, marking the beginning of this historic festival and enveloping the entire atmosphere in the spirit of the Khalsa.
Ceremony Begins According to Ancient Traditions
Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, initiated the event at 12 midnight at Qila Anandgarh Sahib by offering Ardas. On this occasion, five historic war drums and narsinghas (traditional war trumpets) were played to formally inaugurate Hola Mohalla, and the congregation was informed about its historical significance.
Two Major Phases of Hola Mohalla
Highlighting the historical importance of the festival, the Jathedar shared that Hola Mohalla is observed in two main phases. The first phase is held from February 27 to March 1 at Sri Kiratpur Sahib, while the second and principal phase takes place from March 2 to March 4 at Sri Anandpur Sahib — the birthplace of the Khalsa Panth — with full devotion and festivity.
Arrival of the Guru’s “Beloved Armies”
The Jathedar remarked that “the Guru’s army is dearly beloved.” He added that these beloved forces (Nihang Singh organizations) arrive every year at Sri Anandpur Sahib to demonstrate their martial skills and partake in the spiritual joy of the Guru’s house. Hola Mohalla is not merely a festival; it is a day of displaying the physical and spiritual strength of the Sikhs.
Presence of Panthic Personalities
On this occasion, Head Granthi of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Joginder Singh; Manager Malkit Singh; and Additional Manager Hardeep Singh were present. SGPC members Bhai Amarjit Singh Chawla and Bhai Daljit Singh Bhinder also attended.
Among other prominent attendees were Baba Satnam Singh, head of Kar Sewa Qila Anandgarh Sahib; Sant Baba Kashmir Singh Bhuriwale; Baba Sukhwinder Singh Bhuriwale; Baba Gurdev Singh; and Baba Jarnail Singh from Shaheedi Bagh, along with several other respected religious figures.
Significance in Sikh History
Hola Mohalla was initiated by the Tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, to instill courage and martial spirit within the Sikh community. Continuing that tradition today, the festival that begins with the echo of war drums at Qila Anandgarh Sahib reminds us of our glorious heritage. In the coming days, horse riding displays, Gatka demonstrations, and other martial arts performances will be witnessed here.
Security and Administrative Arrangements
The administration has made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the safety of the devotees during Hola Mohalla. Approximately 4,500 police personnel have been deployed across the fair grounds, and CCTV cameras have been installed for constant monitoring.
Additionally, in keeping with religious decorum, the use of colors, intoxicants (including bhang), and begging has been strictly prohibited. Strict orders have also been issued to keep liquor shops in the area completely closed during the festival.
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