Chandigarh
A large number of devotees gathered in the holy city of Anandpur Sahib in Punjab on Monday to offer prayers at Gurdwara Keshgarh Sahib during the Hola Mohalla celebrations that coincide with Holi.
Anandpur Sahib is home to the second most important Sikh shrine after Harmandar Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple of Amritsar.
Hundreds of Sikhs from Nihang, dressed in traditional clothes, carrying weapons and riding horses, performed the ghatka martial arts, which is a major attraction for visitors. The three-day celebrations coincide with the Hindu festival of Holi.
The city and shrine of Anandpur Sahib, located about 85 km from Chandigarh, is the place where in 1699 Guru Gobind Singh baptized five men and founded the Khalsa Panth, the modern Sikh religion.
Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit extended his warm greetings on the occasion of Holi.
In his message, the governor said: The Holi festival represents the arrival of spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. As the onset of spring fills the environment with magic and mysterious fragrances, I hope that the vibrant festival of colors transcends all social barriers, promotes social harmony, and brings joy, cheer, hope and happiness in the lives of the people of Punjab and Chandigarh.
Governor Purohit appealed to the people to celebrate Holi in the true spirit of friendship, goodwill and brotherhood.
