This is a festival which takes place, like most Sikh and Hindu festivals, as per the position of the moon and the planets. With regard to this festival, the first of the lunar month, which is otherwise known as Chet, is considered auspicious. As for the Gregorian calendar, it coincides with the month of March. If Hola is the masculine form of Holi, then Mohalla is derived from the Arabic term Mahalia. This word has great significance in the following ways. This word could mean a form of column that is made in the army, wherein war drums and bearers play a big role. This disciplined group of people is instructed to move from one point to another. In the past, it was the time and opportunity for people to display their martial arts skills. And these days, there are martial arts events that take place in addition to the mock battles that are organized for the entertainment of the people. Historical records show that these events used to be held at forts in Punjab and one such fort was known as Holgarh.
One of the main reasons that this festival is celebrated is to make people realise that there is one God who is the supreme power who watches over us, no matter what names we give him. It is about knowing that all religions are bound by one thread of faith and humanity. And unless one realises this, all prayer and religion will be futile and vacant. The Sikh community is known to have realized the ill effects of living in modern times. Many traditionalists are of the belief that people have forgotten their cultural and historical roots because they are so consumed with everything that modern day living has brought with it. Therefore, as a social cause, the festival of Hola Mohalla seeks to promote a kind of religious tourism which will also make the Sikh youth realise what a rich and wonderful culture they belong to. Many studies are being made so as to examine the benefits as well as the prospects of religious and cultural tourism and how they are different is the many third world countries of Asia.