Wedding Ceremonies & Traditions
Sikh Ceremony Traditions
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Head Covering: Everyone inside the ceremony site must have their head covered. Head coverings will be provided for those who need one. Shoes: Shoes must be removed before entering the ceremony site. The bottoms of your feet should not be facing the stage/Holy Book (Guru Granth Sahib). There will be a dedicated area to place shoes. Men and women sit on separate sides
Attire Recommendation
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Women: Traditional outfits include salwar kameez, anarkali suits, or lehengas. Non-traditional outfits can be formal Western wear including long dresses, long skirts, formal pants and tops. Men: Traditional outfits include sherwanis and kurta-pajamas. Non-traditional outfits include dress pants and formal suits.
Wedding Ceremony
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Anand Karaj is the Sikh wedding ceremony, meaning "Blissful Union", centered around four hymns (Lavan) from the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book. Please be prepared to sit on the floor for the duration of the ceremony. **Note - there will be reserved chairs for guests who need one. Photography/Video: Please refrain from taking any photos and videos during the ceremony. Only our professional photographer will be allowed to take photos/videos.
Matha Tek (Sikh Custom)
**Optional**
Upon entering the ceremony site and before sitting down, it is customary to Matha Tek along with giving an optional monetary donation (usually $1). Matha Tek is a gesture of respect and humility made by bowing down and touching the floor with one's forehead in the presence of the Sikh holy book (Guru Granth Sahib). The monetary donations all go towards temple operations which include daily services and providing meals to anyone who visits the temple. If you prefer to opt out, please just ensure your head is covered and your shoes are removed before making your way to your seat.