The Sikh festival featuring martial displays and formalized by Guru Gobind Singh is Hola Mohalla.
Hola Mohalla was established at Anandpur Sahib in 1701, shortly after the creation of the Khalsa. It developed as a Sikh alternative to the spring festival of Holi, emphasizing disciplined community gatherings, spiritual singing, poetry, and demonstrations of martial skill rather than only colour-throwing customs.
The festival commonly includes competitions and performances involving horse riding, archery, mock battles, and weapons displays. Nihang Sikhs are particularly associated with its martial traditions, although the wider event is attended by Sikh communities and visitors.
Hola Mohalla is often confused with Vaisakhi, which commemorates the creation of the Khalsa in 1699. Bandi Chhor Divas marks Guru Hargobind’s release from Gwalior Fort, while Gurpurab is a broader term for commemorations connected with Sikh Gurus.