Please RSVP online by May 22, 2026
Formal wear Men: suit jacket, pants and button up shirt Women: formal cocktail dress
We will have delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian food.
Anand Karaj (Sikh Ceremony) Details 1. Arrival at the Gurdwara The bride, groom, and their families gather at the gurdwara. Everyone covers their head, removes shoes, and washes hands as a sign of respect. 2. Seating Before the Guru Granth Sahib (holy book) The couple sits cross-legged on the floor facing the Guru Granth Sahib. Women sit on the left side and men sit on the right side of the room. 3. Opening Ardas (Prayer) A Sikh officiant (granthi) leads an Ardas, asking for blessings for the marriage. Everyone stands during the Ardas. 4. Explanation of Marriage in Sikhism: The granthi explains the meaning of marriage in Sikh philosophy. 5. Palla Ceremony A scarf (palla or dupatta) is placed: One end in the groom’s hands or over his shoulder. The other end in the bride’s hands. This symbolizes their spiritual bond and joint journey. 6. Singing of the Four Laavaan (Marriage Hymns) The core of the Anand Karaj consists of four hymns called Laavaan, written by Guru Ram Das Ji. Meaning of the Four Laavaan: First Laav – Commitment to righteous living and duty Second Laav – Growing love and detachment from ego Third Laav – Deepening spiritual connection and harmony Fourth Laav – Union with the Divine and completion of the marriage 7. Anand Sahib Hymn: After the fourth Laav, the Anand Sahib (Hymn of Bliss) is sung. This celebrates joy, harmony, and spiritual fulfillment. 8. Final Ardas Another Ardas is performed to bless the newly married couple. Everyone stands again in prayer. 9. Hukamnama A Hukamnama (a verse) is read from the Guru Granth Sahib. It serves as divine guidance and blessing for the couple’s future. 10. Karah Prashad Distribution Sacred sweet pudding (karah prashad) is prepared and distributed to everyone. It symbolizes equality and sharing. 11. Congratulating the Couple.
The Gurdwara has a strict dress code. All guests cover their heads upon arrival - we will provide scarves. Attire: Formal wear, dress clothes Women: short and revealing outfits are not allowed Men: shorts and t-shirts are not allowed Please keep in mind you will be sitting cross legged during the Anand Karaj (Sikh ceremony). There are benches at the back of the room for seniors and people with less mobility.
Indian breakfast items, tea, juice and dessert will be served in the dining area before the Anand Karaj. Lunch will be served following the Anand Karaj. Alcohol is prohibited at the Gurdwara (temple).
Guests may choose to offer a voluntary donation at the front of the prayer hall; this supports the gurdwara and is separate from wedding gifts. After the ceremony, guests may give the couple cash as a blessing. This is a cultural tradition symbolizing good wishes and support. This is entirely optional.