UK’s Defence Sikh Network celebrates colourful Holla Mohalla military festival
British military personnel from the Defence Sikh Network (DSN), an official organisation within the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), celebrated the Sikh military festival of Holla Mahalla at the Ash firing range in Surrey last week.
Holla Mahalla brings together Sikhs from all walks of life and is a time for celebration, reflection, and strengthening community bonds. The activities and events during the Spring-time festival not only entertain and engage the participants but also serve as a reminder of the Sikh values of courage, service, and spiritual devotion. Traditionally held in March, the event which dates back to the 10th century, celebrates military prowess of the Sikhs by exhibiting military prowess in fierce but good-natured competition.
DSN Event Organiser, Major Daljinder Singh Virdee MBE, Land Operations Command, Field Army, said: “It has been a jam-packed day of both modern and traditional activities, steeped in Sikh military history for personnel from across the British Army.
“The competitive shooting competition from various distances and positions was fiercely contested. Followed by a Sikh martial arts display, Sikh folk music (Dhad Sarangi) and traditional games.
“As Sikhs within the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) it makes complete sense that this is our premier event in the calendar, it is an opportunity to celebrate our rich military past and ensure our martial skills, traditions and values of Sant Siphai-Saint Soldier, continue for generations to come.”
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During the festival last week, participants took part in traditional games like Tug-of-War and Quoits – a game involving ring-throwing over a small post. Both events date back many centuries, when the soldiers’ Sikh military forebears had their Holla Mohalla celebrations. Initiated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Guru of the Sikhs, the festival evokes within the community the spirit of courage, preparation, and heritage. The DSN began celebrating Holla Mohalla in the British Army in 2021
It holds great significance in the Sikh faith as it is not only a time for festivities but also a platform for showcasing and inspiring the martial spirit and valour of the Sikh community.
Apache Pilot, Captain Brijinder Singh Nijjar from 7 Regiment Army Air Corps, was one of those taking part in the day’s friendly competitions: “The British Army has come a long way over a short period of time and it’s good to see that it is inclusive of people from different faiths, backgrounds and cultures.”
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Sikhs have fought alongside the British Armed Forces for over 150 years, with over 400,000 serving in World War I and II, and there were many regiments of Sikhs who won prestigious battle honours.
*Info: British Army