The Sikh Wedding Planning: Rituals, Fashion, and Favors

 

Planning a Sikh wedding is a journey filled with devotion, tradition, and joy. Unlike many other weddings, a Sikh marriage, known as Anand Karaj—meaning “blissful union”—is as much a spiritual ceremony as it is a celebration of family and community. Whether held in the UK, Canada, India, or beyond, these weddings bring together vibrant customs, stunning fashion, and heartfelt rituals, all underpinned by Sikh values of equality, humility, and love.

From selecting outfits and décor to organizing favors like Bindi Packs or choosing where to buy bangles online, there are many beautiful layers to this sacred celebration. Let’s walk through the essential steps to planning a memorable Sikh wedding that honors heritage while embracing personal style.

1. The Sacred Ceremony: Anand Karaj

This ceremony is not merely symbolic—it’s a binding spiritual union between two souls seeking to live as one in harmony with Waheguru (God).

The couple takes four rounds, called Lavan, around the Guru Granth Sahib, each representing a different aspect of spiritual growth and commitment. The groom leads, holding a scarf that the bride follows, signifying unity and guidance.

Things to consider while planning:

Book your gurdwara early, especially if your wedding is in peak season.

Ensure guests are aware of etiquette—head coverings, modest attire, and no shoes inside.

Work with a granthi (religious official) to coordinate the ceremony and hymns.

This part of the wedding is sacred, serene, and entirely spiritual. While it’s simple in presentation, it carries deep meaning for the couple and their families.

2. Pre-Wedding Celebrations: Joy, Color & Connection

Sikh weddings are famous for their lively pre-wedding functions that set the tone for celebration and bonding. These events are where family and friends come together to sing, dance, laugh, and bless the couple.

Roka and Kurmai

The roka is the informal approval of the match, followed by the kurmai (engagement), where families exchange gifts and blessings. This is usually a smaller gathering but holds great importance.

Mehndi Night

A highlight for many, the mehndi (henna) ceremony is a colorful event where the bride’s hands and feet are adorned with intricate henna designs. This evening is filled with music, light snacks, and celebration.

Guests—especially women—look forward to dressing up for this occasion. It’s also common to gift Bindi Packs to guests or include them in mehndi favor bags for a coordinated, traditional touch.

Brides also often buy bangles online ahead of the event to match the color theme or outfit of the evening. It's a practical option that offers greater variety, custom sizing, and doorstep delivery.

Ladies Sangeet

This musical evening brings both families together to sing traditional songs, perform choreographed dances, and create joyful memories. It’s a night of laughter and legacy, often held at home or a banquet venue.

Jaggo

A festive Punjabi tradition, the jaggo takes place the night before the wedding. Family members dance through the streets or homes carrying decorated pots filled with candles, announcing the upcoming wedding with full energy.

3. Bridal and Groom Fashion: Tradition Meets Glamour

Sikh wedding attire is regal, colorful, and layered with cultural significance. Every item, from the jewelry to the fabric choice, reflects personal taste and tradition.

For the Bride

Sikh brides usually wear lehengas or heavily embroidered suits in shades of red, pink, or pastel tones. The outfit is accessorized with:

Jewelry: From matha pattis (forehead bands) to jhumkas and heavy necklaces.

Bindis: While small, they complete the traditional look. Brides often order Bindi Packs in advance to match their various outfits.

Many brides also choose to buy bangles online, especially for their bridesmaids or relatives. It's convenient, customizable, and ensures everyone gets bangles in the correct size and color for each event.

For the Groom 

Accessories like a kirpan (ceremonial sword), kalgi (turban ornament), and mojris (traditional shoes) elevate the look.

The groom’s attire often complements the bride’s, symbolizing harmony and mutual respect.

4. Decor and Themes: Bringing the Vision to Life

Sikh weddings are known for their hospitality and warmth, and décor plays a significant role in setting the mood. While the gurdwara ceremony remains modest, pre-wedding and reception decor can be as elaborate or minimalist as the couple desires.

Popular themes include:

Punjabi Heritage: Incorporating phulkari embroidery, marigolds, and dhol props.

Elegant Florals: Pastel palettes with roses, hydrangeas, and candles.

Modern Minimalist: White, green, and blush tones with simple floral installations.

Favors such as Bindi Packs or bangles can be placed at each guest’s seat, adding charm and offering a keepsake from the wedding.

5. Reception & Post-Wedding Traditions 

Held after the Anand Karaj, it’s a night of grand entrance, emotional speeches, and energetic dancing.

Reception tips:

Hire a DJ or live band that knows both Punjabi and western music.

Plan a memorable couple’s entry and first dance.

Offer return gifts—custom bangles or Bindi Packs make for useful and elegant tokens.

Post-wedding traditions include the doli, where the bride leaves her parental home, and paani varna, the groom’s family’s way of welcoming the bride. Both rituals are filled with emotion, tradition, and love.

6. Shopping Smart: Embracing Online Convenience

Modern couples have embraced online shopping not just for clothes but for accessories and gifts.If you're looking to coordinate mehndi gifts or sangeet accessories, you can easily find curated Bindi Packs online.

For bridal sets, return gifts, or bulk orders, it’s efficient to buy bangles online. Online platforms often offer style suggestions, quantity discounts, and delivery directly to your door—especially helpful for destination weddings.