Holla Mohalla

Name: Holla Mohalla
Start: 2025-03-23
End: 2025-03-25
Location: Anandpur Sahib

A Festival of Courage and Brotherhood Resonating Across Punjab

2026/03/03 - 2026/03/05

Every spring, the small town of Anandpur Sahib in Punjab is enveloped in the vibrant energy, color, and valor of Holla Mohalla. This Sikh festival transforms the playful spirit of Holi into a celebration of martial prowess, where the sound of galloping horses, the flash of swords, and the resonance of sacred hymns fill the streets. Tens of thousands of people come together for processions, mock battles, and communal feasts, deepening their bonds. For anyone seeking to experience living tradition, heroic spirit, and the warmth of Punjabi hospitality, Holla Mohalla is truly a one-of-a-kind festival.

The festival is held every March, usually the day after Holi, in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. Sikhs, history enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers from around the world gather to experience this unique blend of faith and martial arts.

Main Attractions

Martial Arts Displays and Mock Battles

The heart of Holla Mohalla is the powerful display of Sikh martial arts known as Gatka. Nihang warriors, striking in their blue robes and towering turbans, demonstrate swordsmanship, spear throwing, horseback stunts, and mock battles. The clash of steel, the rhythm of drums, and the cheers of the crowd shake the ground, while the dust kicked up by horses, the scent of sweat, and earth create a vivid, raw atmosphere.

Processions and Kirtan (Sacred Hymns)

Every morning, a grand procession (Nagar Kirtan) departs from Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Gurdwara, with thousands singing hymns and waving saffron flags. The streets are lined with flower petals, the fragrance of marigolds, the brilliance of traditional attire, and the sound of hymns enveloping the town.

Costumes and Decorations

Nihangs are known for their deep blue robes, iron bangles (kara), and turbans adorned with steel chakram (quoit). Many carry swords, spears, and traditional shields. The town is decorated with banners, orange and blue flags, and tents for pilgrims to rest and share stories.

Traditional Food and Drink

A highlight of the festival is the free communal kitchen called "langar." Volunteers prepare and serve thousands of portions of dal, roti, sabzi, and sweet kheer. The aroma of freshly baked bread, simmering spices, and wood smoke fills the air, and the warmth of sharing a meal with strangers leaves a lasting impression.

Cultural and Historical Background

Holla Mohalla was established in 1701 by the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, as a counterpart to Holi. Instead of throwing colored powders, it became a venue to showcase Sikh martial arts, discipline, and unity. Even after more than 300 years, Holla Mohalla continues to symbolize Sikh pride, identity, and the spirit of service (seva).

Participant Voices

I’m a traveler from the UK, and I was deeply moved by the hospitality. I joined the langar, learned how to tie a turban from a Nihang, and even tried my hand at Gatka (not very well!). The sense of brotherhood and pride I felt here is unforgettable.