Hola Mohalla is a festival that demonstrates bravery, martial skills and spiritual strength of Sikh community. It is primarily celebrated in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. Established by Guru Gobind Singh, the festival showcases martial arts and the devotion of people. The Sikh community eagerly waits for Hola Mohalla where they also perform community services and sing songs. 

 

If you are planning to attend or be a part of Hola Mohalla, or inquisitive about this festival, this guide is for you. Read on to know the dates of Hola Mohalla 2026 and the history of the festival.

What is Hola Mohalla?

Widely celebrated by the Sikh community, Hola Mohalla is a dynamic festival that reflects bravery, discipline, and collective spirit. Observed a day after Holi, it was introduced to uphold and promote the martial legacy of the Sikhs. Even today, the festival showcases deep-rooted faith, courage, and unity through impressive displays of traditional skills and devotion.

 

This year, the dates of Hola Mohalla are coinciding with Holi celebrations as well. People from India and even abroad make special visits to enjoy the Hola Mohalla festival in Anandpur.

When is Hola Mohalla 2026 Celebrated?

Hola Mohalla 2026 will be observed from 4th March to 6th March. It falls on the first of the lunar month of Chet which is mostly in the month of March. Three-day celebrations of this festival are filled with optimism, devotion, and spiritual strength. It is one of the unique traditions in India and primarily Sikhs participate in the celebrations by performing martial arts.

History of Hola Mohalla

Hola Mohalla's history dates back to the time of Guru Gobind Singh. In 1701, the celebrations for Hola Mohalla were announced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. To strengthen the martial spirit of the Sikh community, this tradition was started. It includes mock practices, martial arts and weapon training. Such traditions build discipline and unity among participants. 

How is Hola Mohalla Celebrated?

Hola Mohalla in Anandpur Sahib is more than a religious festival. It is a symbol of both inner strength and physical capabilities. People participate in martial art mocks to showcase their strength. The word Hola Mohalla itself stands for “mock fights” where people perform organised mock battles.

 

During the entire celebrations, people hold weapon exhibitions along with kirtan, musical events, and contests of poetry. Gatka displays are also done where traditional weapons are used. It represents the courage of the people. Other events include tent pegging, bareback horse riding, and acts of bravery.

 

Several religious assemblies (Darbars) are also organised where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib is respectfully installed. Devotional singing and spiritual discourses are conducted throughout the event. On the concluding day, a grand procession led by the Panj Pyare begins at Takht Keshgarh Sahib and moves through prominent gurdwaras such as Qila Anandgarh, Lohgarh Sahib, and Mata Jitoji, before returning to the Takht.

 

Locals also organise Langars for visitors. Village people contribute by offering flour, rice, milk, vegetables, and sugar. Women are seen cooking and assisting in cleaning. Locals also serve traditional meals to pilgrims.

Hola Mohalla vs Holi

Hola Mohalla and Holi may seem similar in terms but they have slightly different significance. Let's understand how these two are different:

• Purpose and Meaning

Holi is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. On the other hand, Hola Mohalla showcases the courage, unity, devotion, and martial heritage of the Sikh community.

 

• Timing and Duration

Holi falls on the full moon day of the Phalguna month. The main celebration is for 1 day. Prior to Holi, Holika Dahan is also witnessed, making it a celebration of 2 days. Hola Mohalla is a celebration of 3 days which typically begins near Holi.

 

• Celebrations and Activities

In Holi, people play with colours. They sing, dance, enjoy delicacies, and meet friends and families. Hola Mohalla displays mock martial arts, Gatka performances, horse rising, and weapon display. 

 

• Religious Significance

Holi is linked to Hindu mythology and devotional traditions. Hola Mohalla, established by Guru Gobind Singh, strengthens Sikh identity by blending faith, bravery, and community service.

 

• Main Place of Celebration

Holi is celebrated widely across India and beyond. Hola Mohalla festival is mainly observed at Anandpur Sahib, where large gatherings mark the historic and spiritual importance of the festival.

Where is Hola Mohalla Celebrated?

Hola Mohalla festival is popularly observed at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab. However, Sikhs across the world celebrate this festival. Various Gurudwaras and Sikh communities organise this three-day-long festival. If you have plans to witness the most vibrant Hola Mohalla, Anandpur Sahib can be the right place.

 

Tip: Make sure to book your travel tickets in advance to secure your trip. At redBus, you can easily find bus tickets to your preferred locations.

Travel Guide for Hola Mohalla

Before you plan your Hola Mohalla trip, here are a few tips to assist you. Your travel guide to Hola Mohalla:

• Main Location

Hola Mohalla is mainly observed in Anandpur Sahib, an important Sikh pilgrimage centre in Punjab. Most key ceremonies and events are organised near Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, attracting large numbers of devotees and visitors each year. 

 

• Best Time to Visit

The festival takes place annually in March, immediately after Holi. Spanning three days, the celebrations include religious programmes and martial performances, so planning your arrival in advance helps you experience the complete event.

 

• What to Expect

During the festival, you can see thrilling Gatka demonstrations, simulated battles, horseback stunts, traditional weapon displays, devotional singing, poetry events, and vibrant processions showcasing Sikh courage and collective spirit.

 

• How to Reach

Anandpur Sahib can be reached by train and road networks and you can easily book your tickets at redBus. The closest airport is located in Chandigarh, from where buses and taxis frequently operate, especially during the festive period.

 

• Where to Stay

You may book your stay in hotels or accommodations provided by Gurudwara. Anandpur Sahib witnesses heavy crowds. So, you may also book stays near Chandigarh. Make sure to reserve accommodation in advance.  

 

• Food and Langar

Langar meals are typically served throughout the festival. Volunteers cook and serve traditional food while people sit and enjoy delicacies. So, you may also enjoy Langar to know the tradition more.

 

• Tourists Tips

Wear modest clothing and cover your head when entering gurdwaras. Choose comfortable footwear, be mindful of local traditions, follow photography rules, and keep your belongings secure amid the large crowds.