It’s our big pre-wedding party! The evening starts with our Sangeet—think singing, dancing, performances, and great food. Later comes the Jaggo (meaning "wake up"), a Punjabi tradition full of drums, lights, and dancing with illuminated pots (called gaagars). Traditionally, the Jaggo was meant to awaken the neighborhood to celebrate an upcoming wedding, and today it continues as a lively way to spread joy and mark the beginning of our wedding celebrations! Together, the Sangeet and Jaggo create an evening full of culture, color, and excitement!
The Anand Karaj is the Sikh marriage ceremony, which translates to “Blissful Union.” The ceremony includes spiritual hymns, prayers, and the Laavaan—four sacred rounds around the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (Sikh Holy Book) that represent the couple’s journey together. It is a peaceful, prayer-filled service where the couple takes four sacred rounds to signify love, commitment, and partnership. All guests are welcome to join, observe, and share in the experience!
While we warmly welcome your children at our pre-wedding events and ceremonies, the reception will remain an adults-only event. If you have any questions or need help finding a local babysitter, please reach out to Stephanie or Zorawar directly.
Yes, please! If you can only make one or the other, we understand! But please know, everyone is welcome at each ceremony.
We have quite a packed weekend of events honoring each of our religions and cultures! Therefore, we will begin each event promptly at the listed time - please plan to arrive 15 minutes early. If you happen to be running late, no worries, but we will not delay our start!
Guests are encouraged to wear colorful, festive attire. Traditional Indian outfits like lehengas, sarees, anarkalis, or kurta sets are perfect—but not required. Western semi-formal or cocktail attire in bright, celebratory colors is also welcome.
Dress modestly and comfortably - keep in mind we will be sitting on the ground. Many guests will wear traditional Indian clothing, but modest western dressy attire is absolutely fine as well. All guests are asked to bring a head covering (shawl, scarf, bandana, etc.) as everyone is required to cover their heads during the ceremony.
The dress code is black tie formal. Tuxedos or dark colored suits with ties for the men, and evening gowns or floor-length dresses for the women are encouraged. Traditonal Indian attire is also welcome. If wanted, there is time for a quick outfit change between ceremony and reception for those staying at the Omni William Penn. Keep in mind, cocktail hour will begin promptly at 5:30pm.
While we would love to share this part of Z's culture with everyone, please do not feel obligated! If you are interested in wearing a traditional Indian outfit to the sangeet and/or Anand Karaj, there are plenty of online sources to purchase them! A few of these are Lashkaraa, Aza Fashions, Kalki Fashion, and Kynah.
There are many different styles of outfits, with multiple types being appropriate for each event! Listed below are some examples of styles for each event, but really it's up to you! For the women: Sangeet - Think "party wear" for this event. A lengha, any of the suits (sharara, palazzo, gharara), a saree, or an anarkali would be perfect. The more colorful and fun, the better!! Anand Karaj - Think modest as this is a religious ceremony. Any of the suits - sharara/palazzo suit, kurta suit, anarkali etc.. For the men: Any standard American suit and tie will look great for each event! If you would like to wear a traditional Indian outfit you can wear a kurta pajama (with a fun vest on top for extra touch!) for the sangeet and a sherwani for the Anand Karaj.