Hola Mohalla Festival Begins With Devotee Fervour in Anandpur

March 4, 2026

Sri Anandpur Sahib, Punjab: The annual Hola Mohalla festival, a vibrant and traditional Sikh event, began with fervour and devotion at Sri Anandpur Sahib on March 2–3, 2026, drawing thousands of devotees from across the region. The sacred town — known as a central hub of Sikh history and faith buzzed with celebrations, prayer recitals, and ceremonial gatherings as people gathered to pay their respects and participate in the three-day festivities.

Devotees filled the precincts of various Gurdwaras, especially Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, one of Sikhism’s five sacred thrones, to offer prayers and witness ritual readings of the Sri Akhand Paath Sahib the continuous recitation of the Sikh holy scripture which began at the start of the festival and is scheduled to conclude on March 4.

Historical and Spiritual Significance of Hola Mohalla

Hola Mohalla is not just a festival of colours and celebration; it has deep historical roots in Sikh tradition, dating back more than three centuries to the time of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru. This event was instituted as a martial gathering and spiritual congregation, emphasizing the community’s readiness to uphold righteousness and unity, often reflecting discipline, courage and devotion.

Unlike Holi commonly associated with splashing colours Hola Mohalla embodies the Sikh martial spirit, historically featuring displays of Gatka (traditional Sikh martial arts), mock battle demonstrations, processions and community prayers.

Massive Devotee Participation and Rituals

From early morning, long queues of pilgrims including families, youth and elderly devotees moved through the network of tent cities, Gurdwara complex, and community langar grounds. Many devotees took part in Ardās (prayers), listened to kirtan (devotional hymns) and joined prospective seva (community service) activities, such as assisting in the Guru ka Langar (community kitchen) that serves free meals to all.

Security arrangements were also visibly enhanced to manage the large crowds, with local authorities coordinating traffic, parking, and pilgrim movement along key routes leading to the holy city, ensuring smooth and peaceful observance of the festival.

Green Hola Mohalla and Community Initiatives

For 2026, the festival also embraced a “Green Hola Mohalla” initiative, aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable celebrations. The Punjab government introduced arrangements, including a tent city facility and stricter efforts to minimize single-use plastics within the festival zone. Biodegradable alternatives were encouraged at langar halls and community spaces, reflecting the organizers commitment to protect the environment while honouring tradition.

The holy city was lit up with decorative lights, enhancing the spiritual ambience, and pilgrims were seen arriving from far-flung regions, often travelling in groups or on family trips to be part of the three-day celebration.

Cultural Pulse and Global Sikh Sentiment

Hola Mohalla at Sri Anandpur Sahib continues to draw Sikh devotees not only from India but also from across the world. Many international visitors keen to witness the festival’s unique blend of spirituality, history, and martial heritage added to the chatter and devotional energy around the town.

Throughout the festival, rituals, prayers, and displays reinforce the Sikh principles of community service, solidarity, and courage. Community leaders and clergy urged the sangat (devotees) to embrace these values and carry forward the legacy of the Khalsa Panth as celebrated through Hola Mohalla.