The Anand Karaj is one of the most beautiful and spiritually meaningful wedding ceremonies in the world. If you have been invited to a Sikh wedding, or if you are a couple preparing for your own, understanding what happens during the ceremony — and why — will make the experience far more meaningful.
This guide walks through every stage of the Anand Karaj, from the pre-ceremony rituals to the final prayers, so you know exactly what to expect.
What Does Anand Karaj Mean?
Anand Karaj translates to “blissful union” in Punjabi. It is the Sikh marriage ceremony, conducted in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy scripture) and the Sangat (congregation). The ceremony is not simply a union between two people. It is a spiritual commitment made before God, witnessed by family and community.
The Anand Karaj can take place in a Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) or at any location where the Guru Granth Sahib is respectfully installed. In New Zealand, most Sikh weddings take place at Gurdwaras in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, or Christchurch, though some couples arrange for the ceremony at a separate venue with the Guru Granth Sahib brought in by a Granthi (priest).
Pre-Ceremony Rituals
The Milni
The Milni (“meeting”) takes place before the main ceremony, usually at the entrance of the Gurdwara. It is the formal meeting of the two families. Male relatives from each side are paired up — father with father, uncle with uncle, brother with brother — and they embrace, often lifting each other off the ground in a joyful show of welcome and friendly competition.
The Milni is a lively, emotional, and often humorous moment. It symbolises the coming together of two families as equals. It is also one of the most visually dynamic parts of the day, with family members cheering, the dhol playing, and genuine emotion on display.
The Ardas
Before the ceremony begins, an Ardas (prayer) is recited. This is a standing prayer where the congregation asks for God’s blessing on the union. Everyone stands with their hands clasped, and the Granthi leads the prayer. The Ardas sets the spiritual tone for the ceremony.
The Anand Karaj Ceremony
Seating and Setup
The ceremony takes place in the main hall (Darbar Sahib) of the Gurdwara, with the Guru Granth Sahib placed on a raised platform (Palki Sahib) at the front. The Granthi sits behind the scripture, and Ragis (musicians) sit nearby to perform Kirtan (devotional hymns).
The groom sits in front of the Guru Granth Sahib, with the bride joining him on his left side. Both face the Guru Granth Sahib. Their families sit behind them — the groom’s family on one side, the bride’s on the other. All guests sit on the floor as a sign of equality and humility before God.
The Palla Ceremony
Before the Laavan begin, the bride’s father (or a senior family member) places one end of the groom’s palla (scarf or shawl) into the bride’s hands. This act symbolises the father entrusting his daughter to the groom and connecting the couple physically for the ceremony. It is often a deeply emotional moment, especially for the bride’s parents.
The Four Laavan: The Heart of the Ceremony
The Laavan are four hymns composed by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru. They are the spiritual core of the Anand Karaj. Each Laav is first read from the Guru Granth Sahib by the Granthi, and then the couple walks clockwise around the Guru Granth Sahib while the Ragis sing the same hymn.
The bride holds the palla throughout, and family members or friends often walk behind the couple, gently supporting the bride as she circles.
First Laav: The first round speaks of duty and commitment. The couple is reminded of their responsibilities to each other and to God. It marks the beginning of their spiritual journey together.
Second Laav: The second round is about fearlessness and devotion. The couple is encouraged to release ego, fear, and attachment to worldly concerns, and to find God’s presence in each other.
Third Laav: The third round speaks of detachment from the world’s distractions and deepening love. It describes the joy of finding spiritual companionship.
Fourth Laav: The final round represents the ultimate union — with each other and with God. It speaks of a state of bliss, harmony, and divine acceptance. When the fourth round is completed, the couple is married.
The Laavan are the most sacred part of the ceremony. The congregation often watches in silence, and it is common to see tears of joy and emotion throughout the hall.
Anand Sahib and Final Ardas
After the four Laavan, the first five and last stanzas of the Anand Sahib (a prayer of bliss) are recited. This is followed by a final Ardas, thanking God for the union. The ceremony concludes with the distribution of Karah Parshad — a warm, sweet offering made from flour, butter, and sugar — to all present.
What to Expect as a Guest
Covering Your Head
Everyone entering the Gurdwara must cover their head as a sign of respect. Men and women alike should bring a scarf, bandana, or dupatta. If you forget, most Gurdwaras provide head coverings at the entrance.
Removing Your Shoes
Shoes are removed before entering the main hall. There will be a designated area near the entrance for storing them.
Sitting on the Floor
Seating in a Gurdwara is on the floor, cross-legged or with legs tucked to the side. This reflects the Sikh principle of equality — everyone sits at the same level. If you have mobility issues, most Gurdwaras have chairs available at the sides or back of the hall.
Standing During the Ardas
When the Ardas is recited, the entire congregation stands. Follow the lead of those around you.
Langar: The Community Meal
After the ceremony, Langar is served. Langar is a free communal meal open to everyone regardless of background, caste, or faith. It is always vegetarian and is prepared and served by volunteers from the community. Accepting Langar is a beautiful way to participate in the Sikh tradition of equality and service.
Dress Code for a Sikh Wedding
There is no strict dress code, but guests should dress modestly and respectfully. Bright colours are welcome and encouraged. Avoid overly revealing clothing, and remember that you will be sitting on the floor, so choose something comfortable.
Women often wear suits (salwar kameez), sarees, or modest Western dresses. Men typically wear a kurta pyjama, suit, or smart casual clothing. Avoid wearing white or black to the ceremony, as these are traditionally associated with mourning.
How Long Does the Ceremony Take?
The Anand Karaj ceremony itself typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes, though the full morning — including the Milni, Ardas, ceremony, and Langar — can span two to four hours. Guests are welcome to arrive and leave at different points, though staying for the Laavan is encouraged.
Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
Do bow your head toward the Guru Granth Sahib when you enter the hall. You do not need to kneel or touch the floor, but a slight bow shows respect.
Do silence your phone. The ceremony is a spiritual occasion.
Do stay for Langar if you can. It is a meaningful part of the experience.
Don’t turn your back to the Guru Granth Sahib. When moving around the hall, be mindful of your orientation.
Don’t bring alcohol into the Gurdwara. Sikh places of worship are alcohol-free.
Don’t point your feet toward the Guru Granth Sahib. Tuck your legs to the side or sit cross-legged.
Capturing the Ceremony
The Anand Karaj is full of moments that deserve to be preserved: the emotion of the Milni embrace, the tenderness of the Palla ceremony, the sacred beauty of the Laavan, and the quiet joy on the faces of family watching two people begin their life together.
Professional content creators who understand Sikh wedding traditions know exactly where to be during each ritual. They capture the Granthi’s recitation, the couple’s expressions during each round, and the reactions of parents and grandparents — all without disrupting the sanctity of the ceremony.
At The Sonder Collective, we have had the privilege of documenting Anand Karaj ceremonies across New Zealand. If you are planning a Sikh wedding and want your ceremony captured with the respect and artistry it deserves, we would love to hear from you.
A Ceremony Worth Understanding
Whether you are a guest attending your first Sikh wedding or a couple preparing for your own Anand Karaj, understanding the meaning behind each ritual transforms the experience. The Anand Karaj is not just a ceremony. It is a declaration of love, faith, and commitment that resonates long after the final Ardas is spoken.