Anandpur Sahib is a town centered around a fortress from the 1600s. This fortress is called Keshgarh Sahib, and serves as one of the primary areas of worship for the Sikhs. It is surrounded by a thick jungle that in the past served as a protective thicket for the Sikh Base Camp during times of war. The grounds around the fort were used as training grounds in Gatka (Sikh Martial Art). Since then the purpose of these grounds has remained the same, but a town has grown up around it.
The town itself since then has become centered around the heart of its people. These individuals are primarily the warrior class of the Sikhs called the Nihungs. Nihungs participate in certain other activities that make them unique to other members of the community. They are identifiable by their tall, thick turbans with chain mail and metal Chands tied in. They also carry swords and knives with them at all times, and are more tribal in nature. They are extremely amazing people to be around as they view themselves as eternal servants and protectors to the community.
The importance of visiting this place is magnified by the event called Holi. Holi, or Hola Mohalla is an event that takes place within the city once a year. This event takes place between the end of February and the beginning of March. During the event individuals carry and throw dye powder at each other in a celebration of color. Being a part of this celebration within the city that is the central celebrator of this tradition is something else. The center of the heart of India could be said to live in Anandpur during the time of Holi.
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