What happens at Anand Karaj?

The ceremony centres on the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, which is treated with the same respect as a living person. It is placed on a raised, decorated throne under a canopy, and the room is filled with the sound of the hymns sung by the ragis. Everyone removes their shoes and covers their head as a sign of respect.

The bride and groom sit apart at first, then join together for the four rounds, called the laavan. Each round represents a stage of married life, from attraction to deep commitment. During the laavan, the couple holds a handkerchief tied between them, symbolising their bond. The Granthi leads the service and may offer a short speech about marriage.

You can usually choose some of the hymns, and you might include a reading in English or another language if the Gurdwara allows. After the laavan, the couple receives a blessing and may share a sweet. The ceremony ends with the ardas, a collective prayer, followed by the karah prashad, a blessed sweet pudding shared by everyone.

The reception, or risti, usually follows at the Gurdwara hall or elsewhere. Rules vary between Gurdwaras, so confirm the order of events with the Granthi.