What is the significance of the four laavan in the Anand Karaj?

Short answer

The four laavan are sacred hymns sung as the couple circles the Guru Granth Sahib, marking the spiritual stages of their union. Each verse guides the couple toward deeper love, duty and oneness with the Divine.

The Anand Karaj, or 'blissful union', is the heart of a Sikh wedding. During it, the couple walks around the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture, four times. Each circle is called a laavan, and each one carries a specific meaning for married life.

The first laavan speaks of the couple's first steps toward God and each other, leaving behind old ways. The second laavan focuses on growing closer and understanding one another through devotion. The third laavan is about commitment, where the couple pledges to support each other through every challenge. The final laavan celebrates total union, where the bride and groom become one in spirit and purpose.

The hymns are sung by the granthi and answered by the couple and congregation. As you walk, you hold a corner of the rumala, the cloth covering the scripture, symbolising your shared path. These verses are not just ritual; they offer guidance for a lifetime of mutual respect and faith. Different gurdwaras may sing slightly different versions, so ask your granthi about the words before your day.