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Sikh marriage
Introduction
The Sikh ceremony, called Anand Karaj has been current among the sikhs since the time of the third guru, GURU AMAR DAS Ji. (1479 - 1574)
although the four marriage hymns called the lavan were composed by the fourth guru,GURU RAM DAS JI ( 1534-1581 ),it was legalised in 1909 by passing the Anand marriage act.
Anand karaj may be conducted at any suitable place in the presence of GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI -revealed word utterd from the lips of universal gurus, including thirty two hindu and muslim saints & prophets,now vested and ordianed as personfication of eternal word by the tenth guru,GURU GOBIND SINGH JI.
The ceremony can be conducted by any male or female sikh who is conversant and knowledgeable of the scriptures,culture and herritage. Guru Granth Sahib ji is at the centre of Anandkaraj ceremony.
DHUKAO MILNI
Milni literally means meeting of wedding parties under the umbrella of the almighty. Hymns on union,unity and oneness are sung followed by the exchanging of garlands between bride and groom , and this is of course followed by exchanging of garlands and presents between grandfathers - fathers -uncles & brothers on both sides of the families as a formal introduction.This is concluded by Ardaas or supplication to the almighty for the unityof the families
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GURU KA LANGAR /REFRESHMENTS
Nourishment for both body and soul at gurdwara is a unique gift of the universal Guru.Any body can partake guru ka langar ( lords free meal) from the community kitchen
Buffet breakfast is usually served to all the guestswith the blessing of the lord
Consent
Having removed their shoes ,washed hands and covered their heads with handkerchief ( if not wearing a turban) or scarf the guest are all invited to proceed to the darbar sahib ( court of divine authority ) to pay their respects at thethrone -altar of the GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI amidst appropriate hymns being sung by the ragis ( musicians ) before sitting down.
The groom wearing a long scarf around his neck and carrying a protective sword, ( symbolic of princely status )
is seated before the GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI.
Then the bride is escorted by the family members and is seated to the grooms left.
The conductor of ceremony Gaini ji ( priest ) asks the couple and their respective parents to stand up for the Ardaas, whilst the rest of the congregation remains seated. This connotes consent of the bride and the groom and also their parents to the marriage.
The ceremony starts by invoking blessings of vaheguru almighty, seeking grace for the unity of the couple in oneness & union of both families the parties resume thier seats after the Ardaas and a small hymn follows.
For further inquiry to book a wedding @ Gurdwara Gur Panth Parkash,
Please contact the office -
In person - 19 Ashford road
Leicester
Le2 6aa
by phone 0116-2705577
contact form
email - admin@gurpanthparkash.co.uk
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