Hola Mohalla

The Encyclopaedia of Sikhism derives Hola as a masculine form of Holi. Mohalla comes from an Arabic root, and means an organised march with drums and standards. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji is said to have led the first of these marches at Anandpur. The date given is Chet vadi 1, 1757 Bikrami, or 22 February 1701.

While Holi was played with colours, the Encyclopaedia says Guru Ji made this an occasion for mock battles and displays of skill. It suggests this was probably preparation for further conflict after the battle of Nirmohgarh in 1700. That reading is an inference. The gathering became a yearly tournament on the open land by Holgarh Fort, on the far side of the Charan Ganga stream.[EoS]

Its military purpose has faded, but Sikhs still come to Anandpur Sahib in large numbers. Nihangs lead a procession in their traditional dress, on horses and elephants and on foot. They display their weapons and horsemanship, including tent-pegging and mock battles. Anandpur Sahib remains the main meeting place for Nihangs, who are loosely organised today into the Budha Dal and the Taruna Dal.

Its standing is shown by a request of 1889, when the Khalsa Diwan of Lahore asked the government for five Sikh public holidays. Two were granted: Hola Mohalla and the birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Similar processions take place at the Maghi fair in Muktsar, and at Takht Hazur Sahib in Nanded, where the march is led by a white horse said to descend from Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji's own stallion. Namdhari Sikhs often hold group weddings at this time.[EoS][EoS][EoS]