Anand Karaj

(Sikh Wedding Ceremony)

Guru Granth Sahib

The Guru Granth Sahib is the eternal spiritual guide and central scripture of Sikhism, revered as the living Guru by Sikhs worldwide. It was compiled by the Sikh Gurus and contains the divine teachings, hymns, and writings of the Gurus, as well as contributions from saints and scholars of different faiths. The scripture emphasises the oneness of God, equality, selfless service, and devotion. Sikhs treat the Guru Granth Sahib with utmost respect, placing it on a raised platform in the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) and following its teachings in daily life.

What to Expect at the Gurdwara

We warmly welcome guests of all faiths and backgrounds to join us at the Gurdwara. As a place of worship, we kindly ask everyone to observe a few simple traditions during the Anand Karaj ceremony.

  • • Please dress modestly and respectfully.
  • • All guests are required to cover their heads inside the Gurdwara (head coverings will be available).
  • • Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall.
  • • Guests will be seated on the floor in the Darbar Hall as a sign of equality.
  • • Please switch mobile phones to silent and refrain from photography during prayers.
Milni & Tea
The bride’s family welcome the groom’s family. Tea will be served in the Langar hall before going to the Darbar hall to start the Anand Karaj.
Kirtan
The Kirtan Jatha (religious singers) will be singing Shabads (hymns). The Guru Granth Sahib will be attended by a Sewadar (volunteer).
Kurmai
The Kurmai ceremony is a significant step in a Sikh wedding, symbolising the formal commitment between the couple and their families, marking the beginning of their journey together.
Palla
The bride’s parents formally hand the end of the groom’s sash (Palla) to the bride. This signifies the bride’s parents symbolically giving their daughter away in marriage.
Laava
During the Laava, the bride and groom will walk clockwise around the Guru Granth Sahib. The four Laava give the Sikh couple spiritual guidance for their life ahead.
  • To begin by following the path of righteousness and sinlessness.
  • To only have fear of the Lord and remove ego from within the soul.
  • To remember and sing the Lord’s name with the holy congregation.
  • To find divine peace and accept the Will of the Lord.
Ardaas
The Ardaas is a deeply meaningful and heartfelt prayer in Sikhism, serving as a formal supplication to Waheguru (God). It is recited while standing with folded hands.
Karah Parshad
Karah Parshad is a sacred sweet offering made from equal parts of whole wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. It symbolises equality and humility and is accepted with cupped hands.

Ceremony Companion

Now during Laava 1 of 4
ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥
Ik Oankar Satgur Prasad.
There is One God. True is the Guru's Grace.