About the Ceremony
Hindu Wedding Ceremony
Key Components of a Nepali Hindu Wedding
Our ceremony begins with the Swayambar, where the couple exchanges rings and garlands, followed by the Janti (Baraat) — the groom's procession arriving with music and dancing. As the groom removes his shoes to enter the sacred space, the bride's sisters and friends steal them in a tradition called Joota Chupai. He must pay a ransom in cash or gifts to get them back — a lighthearted ritual that bonds both families together. At the altar, prayers are first offered to Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, blessing the marriage with an auspicious start. During Kanyadaan, the bride's family places her hand into the groom's — one of the holiest gifts a parent can give, and often the most emotional moment of the day. The couple then circles the sacred fire seven times in the Saptapadi, making binding vows of companionship, nourishment, prosperity, family, and loyalty. Once the seventh circle is complete, they are officially married. The ceremony closes as the groom applies vermillion powder (Sindur) to the bride's hair parting three times, marking her as his wife, then covers it to ward off the evil eye. He then ties a red beaded necklace called a Potay around her neck — the Nepali symbol of their lifelong bond. Finally, during a very emotional moment, the bride bids farewell to her loved ones as she leaves for her marital home.
Sikh Wedding Ceremony
Key Aspects of the Anand Karaj Ceremony
The ceremony takes place in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture. Attendees sit on the floor and heads must be covered out of respect. The ceremony opens with Kirtan, the singing of sacred hymns, and a communal prayer called Ardaas, inviting God's blessings upon the couple. The central ritual is the Palla Ceremony, where the bride's guardian places a scarf over the groom's shoulder and puts the other end into the bride's hand, symbolizing her being entrusted to him and their union before God. The heart of the ceremony is the Lavaan — four rounds around the Guru Granth Sahib, each accompanied by a specific hymn. Each round represents a deeper stage of spiritual and married life: the first, a commitment to God and family; the second, a meeting of two souls; the third, a detachment from ego; and the fourth, the couple finding peace and completeness in one another. Once the fourth round is complete, they are married. The celebration closes with Langar, a vegetarian meal served to every person in attendance — a reflection of the Sikh principle that all people are equal and no one leaves hungry.
Meal
Service
We are so excited to celebrate with you! Please note that all meals (breakfast & lunch) served throughout both days will be strictly vegetarian.
