What is the anand karaj for same-sex couples and is it allowed in the UK?

Short answer

The anand karaj is the Sikh wedding ceremony, and whether it is allowed for same-sex couples depends on the gurdwara. Some gurdwaras welcome same-sex couples while others do not, so you must ask your chosen place of worship directly.

The anand karaj is the Sikh marriage ceremony, often called the Sikh wedding. It takes place in a gurdwara, the Sikh place of worship. During the service, the couple circles the holy scripture four times while hymns are sung. This ritual marks their union before the community.

Whether a gurdwara will perform an anand karaj for a same-sex couple is decided by that gurdwara and its leaders. Sikh practice is not uniform across the UK. Some gurdwaras welcome same-sex couples fully, while others follow a more traditional interpretation and will not. There is no single national rule that applies to every gurdwara.

If you are a same-sex couple, the first step is to speak openly with the gurdwara committee. Ask whether they will conduct the ceremony and what documents they require. You may also need to arrange a separate legal marriage at a register office or approved venue, because a religious ceremony alone may not be legally recognised.

Some couples choose to hold a civil ceremony first and then the anand karaj. Others hold the anand karaj first and legalise the marriage later. Both orders are fine. What matters is that you understand the rules of your chosen gurdwara before you plan the date.