RSVP: Understanding the Anand Karaj
- The Wedding Chest
- Jan 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 11
The Anand Karaj—literally meaning "blissful union"—is the serene and spiritual heart of a Sikh wedding. Curious about its rich traditions and how to celebrate respectfully? Let’s dive in.
What is the Anand Karaj?
The Anand Karaj is a Sikh wedding ceremony rooted in equality, mutual respect, and devotion. At its centre is the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, representing the ceremony's divine presence. While it is traditionally conducted in a gurdwara (Sikh temple), many modern couples choose alternative venues, such as wedding halls or even their homes, while still adhering to the sacred traditions.
Led by a Granthi (scripture reader), the ceremony features the singing of kirtans (hymns) and culminates in the couple taking four sacred rounds, known as the Lavan, around the Guru Granth Sahib. Each round signifies a distinct love, commitment, and spiritual union stage.
Why it Matters
The Anand Karaj symbolises a spiritual partnership rooted in shared values, faith, and mutual support. It emphasises the importance of equality and spiritual growth, reminding the couple of their devotion to one another and their journey together as equals.
How it Works
Guests can expect a serene ceremony that focuses on the spiritual unity of the couple. Here’s what typically happens during the Anand Karaj:
The Ardas: The ceremony begins with a prayer for blessings and guidance for the couple's new journey.
Palla Ceremony: In this touching moment, the bride’s father places the groom’s palla (ceremonial scarf) over his shoulder and hands the other end to the bride. This act symbolises the bride being entrusted to her husband and the couple’s physical and spiritual bond.
Four Lavan: The central part of the ceremony involves the couple taking four clockwise rounds around the Guru Granth Sahib, each accompanied by a hymn. These rounds represent the stages of love, devotion, and spiritual union.
Anand Sahib: Hymns of joy and celebration are sung, marking the blissful union of the couple.
Final Blessings: The Granthi offers prayers, and the couple is officially declared married.
Guest Etiquette for the Anand Karaj
If you’re attending an Anand Karaj, here’s how to show respect for the traditions:
Dress appropriately: Avoid flashy or revealing attire. Both men and women should cover their heads with a scarf, dupatta, or turban during the ceremony, regardless of the location.
Remove your shoes: When entering a gurdwara or ceremonial space, it is customary to take off your shoes as a sign of respect.
Offer donations: At the gurdwara, approach the donation box in the Darbar Sahib (main hall) and place a small offering, typically between $2.00 and $5.00, as a mark of respect.
Participate respectfully: Sit on the floor (men on one side, women on the other), remain quiet during the ceremony, and avoid unnecessary movement or talking. Photography may be restricted, so check in advance.
Enjoy the langar: After the ceremony, partake in the langar, a communal meal symbolising equality and selfless service. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience a vital aspect of Sikh culture.
How to Celebrate
The Anand Karaj is a profoundly spiritual and peaceful ceremony, so take time to be mindful and present. Once the formalities are complete, the joyous celebrations continue at a reception, where you can join the couple in dancing the night away!
With its meaningful traditions and emphasis on spiritual unity, the Anand Karaj is a beautiful reminder of love, faith, and shared purpose—perfectly capturing the essence of partnership and unity.