Chola or cloak was worn by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and by some of the other Sikh Gurus. This term is now used to describe the orange cloth covering a flag pole known as a Nishan Sahib found outside every Sikh Gurdwara. The Nishan Sahib is distinguished by a tall flag pole with a triangular shaped flag at the top. The Nishan Sahib identifies that the adjoining building is a Sikh place of worship, a Gurdwara and emits a sign of comfort, security and safety within. A troubled human being can find refuge here and will be catered for by the provision of warmth, care, hot food and clothing to regain strength until one is capable of supporting one's self again.

Once a year on Vaisakhi Day and at other special Sikh festivals, the Nishan Sahib Chola is changed for a new one. This year marked the 300th anniversary of the creation of the Khalsa Panth and the changing of the Nishan Sahib Chola was a reminder of the special spirt of the Sikh Gurdwara.

The Nishan Sahib being prepared for lowering down and for its Chola to be changed. In attendance are the Panj Piares and the congregation to witness the changing of the Chola.

The Congregation waiting for the Nishan Sahib to be lowered for the changing of the Chola.

The Nishan Sahib has been lowered and at the top of the flag pole, is the Khanda and below it the Flag of the Khalsa.

The Nishan Sahib Chola has been changed and being raised to stand proud outside Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha.

A Gur-Sikh Sewadar holding the old Chola taken off of the Nishan Shaib, this Chola will be cut into small strips and distributed to the congegation.

The old Chola being respected by the congregation.

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