FAQs

Question

What is the attire?

Answer

Jaggo attire typically involves bright, vibrant, and traditional Punjabi outfits that are perfect for a night of dancing and celebration. Common choices include salwar kameez, lehengas, and sharara sets, often adorned with embellishments like mirror work, embroidery, or gota work. Bold colors like yellow, orange, green, and magenta are popular, and accessorizing with traditional jewelry and a parandi (braid accessory) completes the look. For the Anand Karaj, the Sikh wedding ceremony, both the bride and groom have traditional attire expectations. The bride typically wears a salwar kameez or lehenga, in red with a head covering (dupatta). The groom traditionally wears a kurta pajama with an achkan or sherwani, often in white or light colors, and a turban. Head coverings are essential for all and will be provided; women are recommended to bring scarves or veils. Modest and traditional attire is appreciated, and it’s best to avoid deep necklines, strapless or overly revealing outfits. If you don't have traditional wear -women can wear long dresses with leggings and men will wear black-tie. Please note: It’s customary for everyone to sit cross-legged on the floor, so we recommend wearing something comfortable for sitting this way. There are many online websites that you can order from, for example, www.lashkaraa.com/ is recommended.

Question

What is the Jaggo?

Answer

Pronounced "ja-go," the word means “wake up” and the ceremony embodies this spirit by energizing the family and preparing them for the wedding festivities. Traditionally, Punjabi families held Jago ceremonies to spread the news of a wedding in the days before modern communication. It was a way for the bride’s and groom’s families to invite their relatives and neighbors to join in the wedding celebrations. In modern times, while formal invitations have taken over the task of announcing a wedding, the Jago ceremony continues to be an essential part of Punjabi and Sikh weddings, retaining its cultural significance and joy-filled atmosphere. The families arrive at the venue with much fanfare. They sing and dance carrying a gagger (a decorated earthen pot lit with candles). Along with the earthen pot, people dance with a decorated stick with bells attached. For more information, check out this website: https://timelesstalescreatives.ca/jago-or-jaggo-ceremony/

Question

What is the Anand Karaj?

Answer

Pronounced “Uh-nund Kaa-ruj," it literally translates to “the ceremony of joy,” this ritual happens in the Gurdwara - the Sikh place of worship. This day consists of the following rituals: Milni This particular ritual is all about bringing the two families together. It consists of members of both families greeting each other and exchanging garlands. Breakfast and snacks will follow in the langar hall. Opening Ardaas This is where the Sikh marriage deviates to a more religious phase. Everyone stands together to reflect on their inner values while the couple is prepared for the official wedding. Palla Ceremony Traditionally, the bride's father places the groom's palla (scarf) into the bride's hands, symbolizing the connection between the two. For us, the bride's mother will perform this ceremony, entrusting her daughter's care and happiness to the groom. Laavan Just like the wedding vows phase in a western ceremony, the Laavan is where religious scripture is recited or sung in the Gurdwara while the couple sits next to each other on the floor. Then the couple walks around Guru Granath Sahib Ji four times to signify that they’d live a life centered around spirituality after their union. Each of these 4 laavan have their own meaning and importance . - 1st Laav signifies the initial stage of love, where the couple is captivated by each other's presence. - 2nd Laav, the focus shifts to the idea of partnership. - 3rd Laav, highlights the depth of love and devotion in the relationship. - 4th & final Laav, signifies the culmination of the spiritual journey as a couple. Lunch will follow in the langar hall once the ceremony is complete. This is an alcohol-free and meat-free event by religious customs.

Question

What is the Gurdwara?

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A Gurdwara is a Sikh place of worship and typically includes several key areas, listed below: Darbar Sahib (Main Hall): This is the central space for worship, where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji (the Sikh holy scripture) is respectfully placed on a raised platform and covered with a decorative cloth called a Rumalla. Before entering, all visitors are asked to remove their shoes and cover their heads as a sign of respect. Upon entering, devotees bow before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and may offer a small donation, typically $1–$5. Everyone then sits cross-legged on the floor to listen to prayers and kirtan (spiritual hymns). Chairs will be available along the walls for those who need them. If sitting on the floor, please avoid pointing your feet toward the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Guru Granth Sahib Ji: The Sikh holy book, treated as a living Guru, is the focal point of the Darbar Sahib. Langar (Community Kitchen): Langar is a key part of every Gurdwara - offering free vegetarian meals to all visitors, regardless of background, religion, or status. Traditionally, everyone sits on the floor as a symbol of equality and humility. However, many Gurdwaras today also provide tables and chairs in the Langar Hall for accessibility and comfort. Sach Khand: The room where the Guru Granth Sahib is placed overnight, often decorated. Nishan Sahib: The Sikh flag, usually a yellow/saffron-colored flag with the Sikh emblem (Khanda), displayed outside the Gurdwara. Four Doors: Some Gurdwaras have four doors, symbolizing that people from all directions and backgrounds are welcome. Other Areas: Depending on the Gurdwara, there may also be a library, medical facility, classrooms, meeting rooms, or a playground. Here is a video for more information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXP_MxG9q1o

Question

Quick Guide to Events & Terms

Answer

Chura: The bride receives red and white bangles in a small family ritual. Pronounced "Choo-ra" Maiyaan/Haldi: Turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom in a fun ceremony. Pronounced “Mai-yahn” and “Hull-dee” Jaggo: Late-night celebration filled with dance, drinks, and food. Pronounced "Jaa-go" Anand Karaj: The formal Sikh wedding ceremony performed in a Gurdwara. Pronounced “Uh-nund Kaa-ruj” Gurdwara: The Sikh place of worship. Pronounced "g ur rd-aa-waa-raa" Sat Sri Akaal: Hello Pronounced "sut-sree-uh-kaal"