Hola Mohalla is a Sikh festival celebrating health and freedom. It originated from historical army demonstrations reminding followers of the importance of courage and preparedness. Hola Mahalla begins on the first day of the lunar month of Chet in the Nanakshahi calendar and follows the Hindu festival of colours, Holi.

Martial arts parades

Guru Gobind Singh started this festival as a day for Sikhs to practise their military exercises and hold mock battles. Today, Sikhs celebrate by watching and partaking in martial arts parades, led by the nishan sahibs of the Gurdwaras. These are followed by poetry readings and music.