For the religious wedding ceremony at the Sikh temple, formal and conservative attire is required. Our guests will be required to sit on the floor during the duration of the ceremony, so please wear pants or a dress that would allow you to do so comfortably. If you are interested in wearing an Indian outfit, feel free to contact the bride to get help to purchase an Indian outfit.
At the Sikh wedding ceremony both men and women will be required to cover their head and requires everyone remove their shoes upon entry. There are plenty of shelves where your shoes can be stowed. Gentlemen, you will be provided with a rumaal (bandana) or you may bring your own. Ladies, we ask that you bring a pashmina scarf or shawl, also referred to as a chunni or dupata, to cover your head and shoulders while you are at the temple.
When you enter the main prayer room (darbar hall), you will notice that members of the Sikh Community walk towards the altar at the front and bow before the Holy Book (Guru Granth Sahib). They then provide a small monetary donation for the temple. Non-sikhs are not obligated to bow; you may simply offer a donation and take your seat. If you do wish to participate, you are most welcome to do so. Men and women sit on opposite sides of the temple, so please be seated on your appropriate side. For the Sikh wedding ceremony, the Bride and Groom will be seated front and center of the altar.
The ceremony starts similarly to a traditional American wedding with the Bridal party entering in succession. However, guests should remain seated when the Bride enters. The bride and groom, and their parents will stand with the Priest for a short prayer called "ardas". Following this prayer, the brides father will pass the groom's scarf to the bride, and she will hold onto it for the rest of the service signifying the two souls becoming one. The priest will prompt the couple to stand and circle the Guru Granth Sahib (Holy Sikh Book) a total of 4 laavan (rounds). After the final laavan, the couple is considered husband and wife in the Guru's eyes. The ceremony will conclude with the entire congregation standing in one last final prayer. After the final prayer is said, the priests and volunteers will pass out Prashad (blessed food) for all to partake in.