Schedule

Sangeet & Mehndi

6:00 pm

Colorful Traditional Indian or Western Dress

SANGEET Before marriage, all the relatives and friends of the family get together to express their joy and happiness for the would-be wedding couple by enjoying an evening of music and dance. Dances and songs include traditional Bhangra and Gidda along with Jaago ceremony that involves the families singing Punjabi wedding songs and lighting diyas (Copper vessels are ornamented with lit candles) carried by the women of the family and passed around on the top of their heads, while they chant folk songs. MEHNDI (APPLICATION OF HENNA) The Mehndi ceremony is traditionally when the bride sits to have intricate henna designs applied to her hands and feet. At this event, you’ll also have the opportunity to get your own henna done, so feel free to join in the fun and enjoy this beautiful tradition! The Henna paste symbolizes good health and prosperity in marriage, and there’s a Punjabi belief that the darker the henna stains, the stronger the love and bond between the bride and groom.

Anand Karaj (Sikh Ceremony)

9:00 am

Traditional Indian or Western attire with covered shoulders and long dresses or pants for comfort when sitting on the ground. Wedding colors are optional (blue), colorful clothing is encouraged. All visitors must cover their heads; women may bring scarves (dupatta), though head coverings will be provided. Shoes must be removed before entering, and a designated area is available at the entrance.

The Baraat marks the groom’s arrival, traditionally greeted by the bride’s family at the Gurdwara through a Milni ceremony. Historically, the groom arrived riding a horse, but now they often come in modern forms too, like luxury cars or motorcycles. During Milni, the bride’s family welcomes the groom’s family with embraces, such as the bride’s maternal uncle greeting the groom’s maternal uncle. This marks the exciting start to the union of two families. The Anand Karaj wedding ceremony takes place in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s holy scripture, with the bride, groom, family, and guests. Custom is when entering the building you remove and place shoes in the side room, as well as washing your hands before transitioning upstairs. It’s traditional to bow and offer a small donation ($1-$5) near the holy scripture, though it is not required. After the ceremony, there will be Langar, a traditional vegetarian meal that is an important part of the Sikh traditions.

Christian Ceremony

5:30 pm

Formal Traditional Indian or Western Dress

The wedding ceremony includes an exchange of marriage vows between the couple and a public proclamation of marriage.