The Anand Karaj, meaning "blissful union", is the Sikh wedding ceremony. It takes place in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib and centres on four hymns, the laavan. Practices vary between gurdwaras and families, so treat this as a planning guide and confirm the details with your gurdwara and elders.
Booking the Gurdwara
- Contact the gurdwara committee as soon as your date is likely, especially for popular wedding seasons.
- Ask about its requirements for the couple, and any documents it asks for.
- Confirm the time, how long the hall is available, and arrangements for langar.
- Ask about rules for photography, videography and decoration inside the darbar hall.
What Happens During the Ceremony
The ceremony usually begins with kirtan and an ardas (prayer). The couple sits before the Guru Granth Sahib, and the bride's father, or another family elder, places one end of a scarf, the palla, in the groom's hand and the other in the bride's. Then the four laavan are read and sung. During each one, the couple walks around the Guru Granth Sahib, the groom leading and the bride following, holding the palla. The ceremony closes with an ardas, a hukamnama (a reading from the Guru Granth Sahib) and karah prashad for everyone.
Etiquette for Guests
- Everyone covers their head inside the gurdwara. Keep spare scarves at the entrance for guests who forget.
- Shoes are removed, and hands are often washed, before entering.
- Guests sit on the floor, and alcohol and tobacco are not allowed on the premises.
- Modest clothing is expected. Mention this on the invitation for guests unfamiliar with gurdwaras.
Planning the Day Around the Ceremony
- Because the Anand Karaj is often in the morning, start makeup early and keep the getting-ready photos short.
- The milni, where relatives of both families meet and exchange garlands, usually takes place before the ceremony.
- Plan transport for the baraat and older relatives, and breakfast or tea for guests arriving early.
- The reception, if you have one, is often held later the same day or the next day at a separate venue.
Vendors You'll Need
- Photographer and videographer who know gurdwara etiquette and follow its rules.
- Makeup artist who can start early, and who knows the look should suit a covered head.
- Decorator for the entrance and outside areas, within the gurdwara's rules.
- Transport for the couple and family, and a decorated car for the doli.
- For the reception: venue, caterer, decorator and DJ.
Finding Vendors on Wedding Bharat
On Wedding Bharat you can browse photographers, makeup artists, decorators and wedding cars by city and contact them directly on WhatsApp. For the other functions, see our Punjabi wedding checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Anand Karaj mean?
It means "blissful union". It is the Sikh wedding ceremony, held in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib.
What are the laavan?
Four hymns read and sung during the ceremony. During each one, the couple walks around the Guru Granth Sahib, the groom leading and the bride following, holding the palla.
Do both partners need to be Sikh?
Many gurdwaras perform the Anand Karaj only when both partners are Sikh. Policies can differ, so ask your gurdwara before you plan.
What should guests wear to an Anand Karaj?
Modest clothing, with heads covered inside the gurdwara. Shoes are removed before entering.
Can I contact wedding vendors directly on Wedding Bharat?
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