Military personnel from the Defence Sikh Network (DSN) have taken part in their version of the Sikh military festival of Holla Mohalla at the Ash firing ranges, Aldershot.
Wing Commander Ghataora in one of the firing lanes at Ash Ranges, Aldershot, during the shooting competition.
Left to right, Corporal Singh Lally ties a patka on Corporal Singh Sudan's head at Ash Ranges in Aldershot.
Left to right Kraka Singh, Signaller Singh wearing World War I Sikh uniform and Sergeant Singh at Ash Ranges in Aldershot.
Majhail Singh throwing powder at one of the soldiers during Holla Mohalla Festival at Ash Ranges in Aldershot.
Private Singh takes part in Rang.
Holla Mohalla brings together Sikhs from all walks of life. It is a time for celebration, reflection, and strengthening community bonds. The activities and events during the festival not only entertain and engage the participants but also serve as a reminder of the Sikh values of courage, service, and spiritual devotion.
The highlight of this annual event was the cultural tradition of Rang, where all those present were invited to throw brightly coloured neon powders at one another in celebration of the day.
The Defence Sikh Network is the official organisation within the UK Ministry of Defence, supporting inclusion from a Sikh perspective. It is primarily an employee support group with the aim to improve the experience of Sikhs within the MOD. Additionally, it aids in MOD policy development and engagement with the UK Sikh community.
In hosting this event, we not only celebrate the heritage of our Sikh colleagues but also reaffirm the British Army's steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion. Events like this underscore the strength that comes from respecting and embracing the unique contributions of every individual within our ranks.
Major General John Kendall, Deputy Commander Field Army and Advocate of the Defence Sikh Network said:
"Traditionally held in March, this is the fifth year that the DSN has celebrated Holla Mohalla, a custom which dates back to the 10th century, and recognises the military skills of the Sikhs where military prowess is honed and exhibited in fierce but well natured competition."
Today has been an immersive experience, blending modern military skills with the rich traditions of Sikh military heritage.
The day started with personnel taking part in a shooting competition, which tested their marksmanship across various distances and firing positions. This was followed by a captivating display of Sikh martial arts and demonstrations of traditional warrior practices.
Major Daljinder Singh Virdee MBE VR, Land Operations Command, Field Army said:
"Today has been an immersive experience, blending modern military skills with the rich traditions of Sikh military heritage.”
Sikhs have served in the British Army since the 1800s, they won many battle honours including Victoria Crosses. More than 84,000 Sikhs died during World War 1 and 2 and over 100,000 were injured.
Added Major Singh-Virdee:
"For Sikhs serving within the UK Ministry of Defence, this event stands as a cornerstone of our annual calendar. It is a vital opportunity to honour our rich military heritage, preserve our martial traditions, and uphold the timeless values of the Sant Sipahi—the Saint Soldier. Through this, we ensure that our skills, ethos, and legacy endure for generations to come."
During the festival, participants were invited to take part in traditional games, like Tug-of-War and Quoits (a game where you throw rings over a small post). The events and disciplines have their roots dating back over many centuries and ones that their Sikh military forebears would have taken part in.
Holla Mohalla holds great significance in the Sikh faith as it is not only a time for festivities, but also a platform for highlighting and inspiring the martial spirit and valour of the Sikh community. Initiated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji (10th Guru of the Sikhs), Holla Mohalla evokes within the community the spirit of courage, preparation, and heritage.
The event also saw the introduction of a new camouflage head covering, the Multi Terrain pattern (MTP) Patka, (bandana) and Keshki (smaller turban), which has now become part of the Sikh soldier’s uniform. The Sikh military foundation, the affiliated charity of the DSN worked closely with soldiers to perfect the design and fit. The charity then manufactured and donated the new headdress to Sikh service personnel free of charge.
