Which Guru introduced Anand Karaj?

Short answer

Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, introduced the Anand Karaj. He composed the Anand Sahib, the hymn of bliss, which is central to the ceremony. The wedding ritual as we know it today was formalised later by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru.

Guru Amar Das, the third Sikh Guru, introduced the Anand Karaj. He composed the Anand Sahib, a set of hymns that celebrate the union of the soul with God, and this forms the heart of the wedding ceremony. The actual wedding ritual, including the four laavaan or rounds around the Guru Granth Sahib, was established by his successor, Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru. During the ceremony, the couple walks around the Guru Granth Sahib four times, each round representing a different stage of married life and spiritual commitment. The Anand Karaj is not just a legal contract but a deeply spiritual event, where the couple seeks blessings from the Guru and the congregation. In the UK, the ceremony usually takes place in a Gurdwara, which is a registered place of worship. For the marriage to be legally recognised, the Gurdwara must be registered for marriages and an authorised person must be present. The couple also needs to give notice at the register office at least 28 days before the wedding in England and Wales, or 29 days in Scotland. If you are planning an Anand Karaj, speak to your Gurdwara and registrar early to understand the legal requirements and any local variations.