09/09/2026
Hola Mohalla – The Sikh Festival of Courage and Equality
Hola Mohalla is celebrated every year in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, and was started by the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, in 1701, shortly after the creation of the Khalsa on Vaisakhi in 1699.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji created the Khalsa to build a community of saint-soldiers who would stand against oppression, protect the weak, defend freedom of religion, and serve humanity regardless of caste, creed, or background. The Khalsa was never created to attack innocent people, but to protect civilians and uphold justice.
Hola Mohalla was established as a day for the Khalsa to demonstrate military readiness and discipline through horse riding, gatka (Sikh martial arts), mock battles, archery, swordsmanship, and other skills. Alongside these displays, Sikhs gather for kirtan, katha, prayers, seva, and langar, reflecting the balance between spiritual devotion and physical strength.
One of the revolutionary teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was equality. When Sikhs receive Amrit (Khalsa initiation), men take the name Singh ("Lion") and women take the name Kaur ("Princess"). Guru Gobind Singh Ji rejected discrimination based on caste, birth, or gender. Women and men are equal members of the Khalsa, with the same spiritual status, the same responsibilities, and the same right to participate in religious life, seva, and the defence of righteousness.
Today, Hola Mohalla continues to inspire Sikhs around the world to live with courage, humility, discipline, selfless service, and a commitment to justice for all.
Akaaaaalllll 🦅⚔️🐊