PREMIER David Eby on Friday said in a statement celebrating Hola Mohalla:

“Sikhs in British Columbia and around the world begin celebrating Hola Mohalla today.

“People will gather for prayers and hymn singing, as well as for communal meals, in gurdwaras. The bright and colourful festivities last for three days of celebration, including demonstrations of gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art.

“I wish a joyous festival to all celebrating Hola Mohalla.”

PIERRE Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, said: “In 1701, the first-ever Hola Mohalla was established at Anandpur Sahib, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, displayed Sikh martial arts.

“Over three centuries later, this iconic tradition is still practiced by Sikhs around the world. Its skillful displays of gatka, horse riding and Sikh martial arts are a powerful symbol of Sikh cultural pride and endurance.

“As festivals and parades are held in communities across Canada, all Canadians can share in Hola Mohalla’s timeless message of justice and the fight against oppression, strengthened by our common values of faith, family and freedom.

“To all Canadian Sikhs celebrating today, may you continue to inspire future generations to uphold the time-honoured traditions and values of Sikhism that have stood the test of time.

“Happy Hola Mohalla!”