Attending a Sikh Wedding: Difference between revisions

If you are invited to a Sikh wedding, don’t panic, below is a brief guide to what to expect and what to wear:

The Wedding day protocol usually consists of:

1. Departure of Barat: Barat is the term used to describe the party from the Grooms side. The Barat will leave from the Groom's house to the Gurdwara, usually near the Bride's house, where the wedding will take place. The arrangements for the rest of the day are normally made entirely by the Bride's family. However, some of this is now changing.

2. Reception of Barat: The Groom's party is "received" by the Bride's party at the Gurdwara.

3. Milnea: (means "Introductions") The Ardas will be performed by the priest (Giani) followed by the formal introductions of the main male players in the families.

4. Tea: Tea with savouries and sweets will be served and are normally taken standing at tables. Chairs are seldom provided.

5. Main Wedding Ceremony (Anand Karaj) This is the formal part of the ceremony and always takes place in a Gurdwara Please observe the rules applicable which are described at Visiting a Gurdwara. Also described here is the clothing to be worn. Please note that as you will be required to sit on the carpeted floor, suitable clothing should be worn.

a. Kirtan - The singing of the Holy Hymns - Gurbani.

b. Ardas – Key People (Bride, groom, both parents of bride and groom) will stand straight with folded hands and join in this prayer.

c. Laava – The Bride and Groom will walk in tow around the SGGS four times at the set intervals.

d. Ardas – All the congregation will stand and join in the ardas followed by Hukamnama

e. Sagaan – The parents of Bride and Groom followed by key people and the congregation will bless the newly wedded and give gifts or money and have photos taken.

f. Kara Parshad – Blessed "Sweet pudding" is served.

6. Lunch: Previously this used to be Langar at the Gurdwara but now it is lunch at a commercial venue. When held in a commercial venue, it is like a normal "dinner & dance" type of event. Loud "Bhangra" music is played and alcohol and meat may be served!

7. Departure of Doli: The bride changes into new clothes that are presented to her by the groom's family. She will then departs from her parent's house (a very sad and touching occasion).

8. Reception: (Optional) This may be held on the same day or another day and is an evening "dinner and dance" type occasion, sometimes not too formal (please check with the party) where only invited guests from both familes can attend.