大象传媒

Good Morning.

From the 14th to the 16th of March, there is a globally significant event for Sikhs called Hola Mohalla. It was established in 1701 by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and last Sikh Guru in the lineage of spiritual teachers in the Sikh faith.

This 3 day festival has continued to take place in Punjab, India, as well as being replicated in gurdwaras, Sikh communities and school programmes around the world. Guru Gobind Singh was a revered warrior and originally created this festival for Nihang Sikhs, to demonstrate their martial skills in simulated battles. Alongside these impressive displays, the festival includes music and poetry, representing the saint aspect through devotion to God.

The concept of 鈥淪aint-Soldier鈥� - relating to service, defending the weak, freedom from fear of death, readiness for taking action - is very much part of the Sikh identity, yet can be more widely relatable.

I鈥檓 always excited and moved by this event and feel deeply touched by learning more about the history and depth of meaning.

And while Sikhs aren鈥檛 called to the battlefield as they were in the Guru鈥檚 times, this festival contributes to creating uplifting community gatherings, economic input, it draws thousands of non-Sikhs to learn more about Sikh history.

Dear God, I give thanks to everyone who dedicates their time and effort to create these significant occasions, to making them widely accessible, in ways that bring people together from a diversity of cultures, to be inspired by examples of those who embody a warrior spirit and devotional heart. I pray we can keep exploring each other鈥檚 faiths and traditions, recognising their unique qualities, but also, importantly, the aspects that are universal and uniting.

Sat Naam.