The Sikh wedding ceremony, known as the Anand Karaj (meaning 'Blissful Union'), is a deeply spiritual and dignified service centered around the Guru Granth Sahib. Understanding the sequence of events is key for couples coordinating their photography team.
1. The Milni Ceremony
Before entering the Gurdwara, the groom's family (Baraat) is welcomed by the bride's family. Senior male and female relatives exchange flower garlands (Milni) and greetings, which we capture with high-speed lenses as it is full of joy and laughter.
2. Entering the Darbar Sahib
All guests remove their shoes, cover their heads, and sit on the carpeted floor as a sign of equality before the sacred scriptures.
3. The Lavan
The centerpiece of the wedding. The couple is joined by a palla (scarf) and circumambulates the Guru Granth Sahib four times as the priest recites the four hymns of Lavan. Our photography team operates discreetly during these rounds, capturing the couple's expressions without blocking the view of the congregation.
4. The Doli
The ceremony ends with the emotional departure of the bride from her parental home, representing a major transition which we document candidly as it is filled with raw emotion.