Anand Marriage Act
Anand Karaj, The Sikh Marriage Ceremony, dates back to 1552 during the time of 3rd Guru Amar Das. It became legalized in India, as the 1909 ‘Anand Marriage Act’. Child marriage is against Sikh tenants, as is consulting of horoscopes by families to determine a suitable date. Caste or color ought not to be a consideration when arranging a suitable match.
It is desirable for a Sikh to marry within religious confines. When marriage partners have been settled upon by prosepective families, an engagement ceremony may be held sometime prior to the wedding, but is not necessary. The bride and groom may be both be present, or either one represented by proxy. Families may make an exchange of gifts, and sweets with Ardas offered. Ritualistic practices, especially those identified with other religions are discouraged.
On the morning of the Anand Karaj, the families and friends of both bride and groom meet at an agreed upon location where the wedding shall be held. The marriage is conducted generally before noon, in the presence of Siri Guru Granth Sahib, and may take place in a Gurdwara, or other suitable hall not used for dancing, serving alcohol, or smoking tobacco. A granthi is present to attend the Guru Granth Sahib. Ragis are on stage to sing the hymns of the wedding rounds.
Lavan, the Four Hymns of the Wedding Rounds
- First Laav: Asserts that the state of marriage is encouraged and supported as the best state of life for a Sikh.
- Second Laav: Conveys the awakening feelings of love a bride has when leaving her former life, and beginning a new life in partnership with her husband.
- Third Laav: Declares the bride's detachment from the world and outside influences, while becoming more deeply devoted to her husband wishing only to live for him.
- Fourth Laav: describes a spiritual union of love and devotion where no feeling of separation is possible, imparting perfect joy and contentment.
Lavan, the essential part of the ceremony, is sung as the bride and groom make the four wedding rounds, circumambulating Siri Guru Granth Sahib. Upon completion of the fourth round, they are considered to be man and wife. The ceremony is concluded with langar, a spritual repast, and refreshments such as ladoo served by the family, to wedding guests.
More about Sikh Weddings
Anand Karaj - Sikh Marriage CeremonyRelated about Sikh Marriage
Traditional Sikh Marriage
Laava - The Four Rounds
Lavaan - Sikh Marriage Rites
