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FAQs

Pre-Wedding Celebrations

What are the pre-wedding events, and should I attend them?

Absolutely! Punjabi weddings are full of love, music, and celebration, and we’d love for you to be part of the fun. Here are some of the pre-wedding traditions you might experience:

✅ Mayan (ਮਾਈਆਂ) – A Ritual of Purity and Blessings
Think of this as a traditional spa day for the bride (and sometimes the groom!). A turmeric paste (ubtan) is applied to give a natural glow before the wedding. It’s a beautiful moment of love, laughter, and blessings from family.

✅ Mehndi (ਮਿਹੰਦੀ) – The Henna Celebration
A relaxed evening filled with henna, music, and dancing! The bride’s hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs, symbolizing love and good fortune. Guests are welcome to get small designs too!

✅ Jago (ਜਾਗੋ) – The Ultimate Dance Party!
"Jago" means "wake up!", and that’s exactly what we do! It’s a high-energy dance party the night before the wedding, where family and friends celebrate with music, dhol (drums), and lots of fun. Why sleep when there's a wedding to celebrate?

What is the Sikh wedding ceremony (Anand Karaj), and what does it mean?

The Anand Karaj (meaning "Blissful Union") is the Sikh wedding ceremony, held in a Gurdwara (Sikh temple). It’s a peaceful and deeply spiritual event where the couple makes a lifelong commitment to each other and to living a life of love, service, and equality.

The ceremony centers around the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy scripture).The couple takes four sacred vows (Lavan), walking around the Guru Granth Sahib with each vow. These walks represent their journey together as partners in love and faith.

What do the four Lavan (sacred vows) mean?

1️⃣ First Lavan – Commitment to Righteousness and Truth

  • The couple begins their journey together, committing to a marriage based on righteousness, honesty, and spiritual growth.

  • They promise to walk on a path of truth, supporting each other in their faith and personal growth.

2️⃣ Second Lavan – Strengthening Love and Devotion

  • The couple deepens their love for one another, embracing patience, trust, and respect.

  • They recognize that true happiness comes from selfless love, and they commit to being devoted partners.

3️⃣ Third Lavan – Detachment from Materialism, Growth in Spirituality

  • The couple vows to build a marriage not based on material wealth but on shared values, compassion, and mutual understanding.

  • They promise to work together, uplift each other, and focus on what truly matters in life—love, family, and faith.

4️⃣ Fourth Lavan – Complete Unity and Eternal Bond

  • By this final round, the couple has fully embraced their spiritual and emotional connection.

  • They now walk as one soul in two bodies, promising to face life’s ups and downs together, with love, faith, and gratitude.

At the end of the four rounds, the couple is officially married! The ceremony concludes with final prayers and the sharing of Karah Prasad (a sweet offering given to all guests).

Is there anything I should know about visiting the Gurdwara?

  • Cover your head – Both men and women should wear a head covering inside the Gurdwara (scarves will be provided if needed).

  • Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.

  • The ceremony is calm and respectful—please avoid talking and keep phones on silent.

  • Everyone is welcome to join the langar (community meal) after the ceremony! Langar is a beautiful Sikh tradition where a free meal is served to all guests, regardless of background.

What should I expect at the wedding reception?

One word: PARTY! 🎉 Punjabi wedding receptions are full of energy, dancing, and amazing food. Here’s what to expect:

💃 Dancing, lots of dancing! – Bring your best dance moves.
🍛 Delicious Indian food – A variety of flavorful dishes.
🥂 Open bar & toasts – Drinks and heartfelt (sometimes hilarious) speeches.
🎶 Live entertainment – From DJs to dhol (drums), the music doesn’t stop.
🎂 Cake cutting – Lighthearted moments to celebrate the couple.