FAQs
Question
What to expect when arriving to our wedding (6/19/25):
Answer
On the wedding day, festivities begin with Angad's Baraat. The Baraat, the arrival of the groom, is the wedding procession during which the groom, along with his family and friends, arrives at the Gurdwara to be welcomed by the bride's family and friends. Next, we have the Milni, which is the meeting of the families. Milni is the formal introduction of the key members of both families, accompanied by the exchange of garlands. This will be occurring at the front of the temple or Gurudwara. When the Milni starts, the priest will first recite a small prayer, then call the names of the corresponding family members from either side, beginning with the eldest. After the Milni ceremony, breakfast and tea will be served in the Langar hall. After this, the wedding ceremony will begin.
Question
General rules when visiting a Sikh Temple:
Answer
- Kindly remove your shoes and ensure that your head is covered when inside buildings. - During the wedding ceremony, guests will sit on the floor in the Main Hall. Out of respect, please avoid facing your feet toward the Guru Granth Sahib (Holy Scripture). Many people sit cross-legged. - in the Main Hall, women generally sit on the right side of the temple while men sit on the left. - Refrain from consuming alcohol before or during the Sikh ceremony. - Restrooms are located near the Langar Hall/behind the Main Hall. They are to the left when facing the front of the Langar Hall. - Food served is vegetarian. - If you have any questions prior to the event, please don't hesitate to reach out. During the event, feel free to approach anyone as they will be happy to assist and answer questions.
Question
The Anand Karaj or Sikh Wedding Ceremony
Answer
The Sikh wedding ceremony is known as "Anand Karaj" which means 'Blissful Union." The guests enter into the Main Hall and pay respect to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji (holy scripture) by bowing down (optional for non-Sikh guests) and then taking a seat in the room with ladies on the right side and gentlemen on the left. Order of Events: 1. Ardaas: Couple and parents only 2. Palla Rasam: Father of the Bride gives away Bride, taking one end of the Palla (groom's scarf) of the groom and handing it to the Bride. 3. Laavan (marriage prayer): The Ragis, or Sikh musicians, recite and sing each verse of the Laavan as the couple to walk around Guru Granth Sahib Ji four times. The laavan take the bride and groom through a journey that leads to a union with God and the union of a husband and wife. These are both teachings and vows that they take to seal their marriage union. 4. Kirtan: Devotional singing to bless the union. 5. Ardaas (Congregational Prayer): All guests are asked to please stand during this prayer. 6. Karah Parshaad: A food offering passed out to all guests following the Ardas. Guests may accept the Parshaad, sitting, with hands raised and cupped. It is a made with equal portions of whole-wheat flour, clarified butter, and sugar. 7. After the Parshaad is distributed, guests may head to the Langar Hall for Lunch.
Question
What to wear at the Sangeet (6/13/25)?
Answer
Colorful traditional Indian or Western semi-formal attire.
Question
What to wear to the Wedding (6/19/25)?
Answer
Indian or Western Formal. Please dress modestly as the wedding is in a temple. As guests will be seated on the floor for the duration of the ceremony, it is recommended that guests wear pants or long dresses. It is required to cover your head and remove your shoes inside the temple, so you may wish to bring a scarf or bandana, and wear easy to remove shoes. Head coverings will also be provided at the temple for guest's use. Men generally wear suits, kurthas are welcome. Any color is welcome; however, red, white, and black are discouraged (black suit is okay).
Question
What to wear to the Reception (6/20/25)?
Answer
We encourage guests to dress in Indian wear or black-tie attire.
Question
What does Indian attire look like
Answer
If you are interested in knowing what Indian guests generally wear to each event: Wedding: Sharara/Gharara - long top with flowy pants. Anarkali - full length gown with leggings Reception: Lehenga - crop top with long skirt. Gowns - full length Saris/Sarees are another option, with a pre-draped version being easier to wear. However, please note that it may be harder to dance in. If you are interested in buying a traditional Indian outfit, here are some websites we recommend: AZA Fashion https://www.azafashions.com/en-us Peria Pop Up https://www.perniaspopupshop.com/ Lashkaraa https://www.lashkaraa.com/
Question
Is there a Registry?
Answer
We have opted not to use a registry as we wish to have no boxed gifts. Your attendance is the greatest gift to us!