THE SIKH MARRIAGE CEREMONY (ANAND KARAJ)
A Traditional & Spiritually Rooted Explanation
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE ANAND KARAJ
The Anand Karaj, meaning “Ceremony of Bliss,” is the sacred Sikh marriage ceremony.
Grounded in the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, it unites two souls who commit to a life
of truth, equality, love, and spiritual devotion under the guidance of Waheguru. It reflects centuries of
Sikh tradition and the timeless wisdom of our Gurus.
SECTION 2: OPENING BLESSINGS & PALLA RASAM
The ceremony begins with the couple and their parents standing to seek the blessings of Waheguru. The bride’s
father places the groom’s palla into the bride’s hands — a sacred gesture symbolising shared responsibility,
mutual respect, and the beginning of their spiritual journey together.
SECTION 3: THE FOUR LAVAAN — TEACHINGS OF GURU RAM DAS JI
Central to the Anand Karaj are the Four Laavaan, sacred Shabads composed by Guru Ram Das Ji,
found on pages 773–774 of the Guru Granth Sahib. During each Laav, the couple walks clockwise around
the Guru Granth Sahib, bowing to accept divine guidance while the Sangat witnesses their vows.
SECTION 4: FIRST LAAV — LOVE & SPIRITUAL DEDICATION
The first Laav focuses on the remembrance of God and grounding the marriage in spiritual devotion. The couple
promises to meditate on the Name of Waheguru, seek guidance from the Guru, and build their life on truth,
love, and inner purity. This dedication brings harmony and divine blessing into the home.
SECTION 5: SECOND LAAV — UNITY & SHARED GROWTH
The second Laav marks the merging of two souls on a shared path. The couple vows to support one another,
balance joys and sorrows equally, and remove all fear and doubt. This step strengthens emotional and
spiritual unity.
SECTION 6: THIRD LAAV — FIDELITY & SWEET COMMUNICATION
The third Laav emphasises compassionate communication and a faithful heart. The couple pledges to speak with
love and gentleness, remember Waheguru, stay close to the Sangat, and maintain grace and self-control even in
challenging times. This creates a home filled with peace and kindness.
SECTION 7: FOURTH LAAV — ETERNAL COMPANIONSHIP
The fourth Laav completes the spiritual union. The couple vows to remain devoted companions through all of
life’s highs and lows, keeping Waheguru at the centre of their journey. This bond, sanctified before the Guru,
extends beyond worldly life and into eternity.
SECTION 8: CLOSING REFLECTION
The Anand Karaj is a profound expression of Sikh values and history. Through the guidance of the Four Laavaan,
two souls join as one — walking forward in truth, devotion, and divine love. It is a celebration of spiritual
companionship blessed by the Guru.
Written By: Barjinderpal Kaur Lall