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What is Anand Karaj?
Anand Karaj, meaning "Ceremony of Bliss", is the Sikh religious marriage ceremony. It was introduced by Guru Amar Das Ji and formalised by Guru Ram Das Ji, who composed the Lavan, the four hymns that form the heart of the ceremony.
Unlike a civil marriage, Anand Karaj is not merely a legal union. It is a spiritual journey in which two souls come together before Waheguru and the Sangat, committing to walk the path of Sikhi together as one.
The ceremony takes place in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and is conducted at a Gurdwara, with the couple and their families gathered in reverence.
01
First Lav
The beginning of the spiritual journey, duties to family, community and the world. The couple set their intention before Waheguru.
02
Second Lav
Fear of the Lord is shed and the mind is cleansed. The couple move toward deeper union with the Divine and with each other.
03
Third Lav
The mind is filled with divine love. The couple detach from the ego and embrace the Sangat and Shabad.
04
Fourth Lav
The soul merges with Waheguru. The union is complete, two souls become one in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
The Lavan
The four Lavan are the four hymns composed by Guru Ram Das Ji. As each is recited, the couple walk clockwise around the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
The ceremony takes
place at the Gurdwara
Anand Karaj must be conducted in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It is not a ceremony that can take place in a secular venue.
Dress
respectfully
All attendees must cover their heads and remove their shoes. Modest, respectful clothing is expected from everyone present.
The Lavan are
recited and sung
A Granthi recites each of the four Lavan from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji while the Ragis sing them. The couple walk around the Palki Sahib after each.
Family and Sangat
bear witness
The ceremony is witnessed by the couple's families and the wider Sangat. Their presence is not merely symbolic, it is part of the ceremony itself.
What to Expect
