Complete Guide to Sikh Weddings in the UK: Traditions, Ceremony & Etiquette

A Celebration of Love, Tradition, and Cultural Richness

Sikh weddings are deeply spiritual, family-oriented events that combine centuries-old customs with vibrant festivities. But when celebrated in the UK, these traditions often meet modern expectations, tighter schedules, and multicultural guest lists.

It’s essential to understand the traditions and etiquette behind this sacred celebration, whether you’re part of the Sikh community, marrying into one, or attending as a guest.

Royalbindi understands the significance of Sikh weddings and the desire to capture every precious moment of this joyous celebration.

Our experienced Punjabi wedding photographer team is dedicated to preserving the essence of Sikh weddings through stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling.

Here, we delve into the beauty and grandeur of Sikh weddings, exploring their rich traditions, ceremonies, and the unbreakable bond of love that unites two souls.

Sikh Wedding Origin and Cultural Significance

Celebrations are only a part of Sikh weddings, called Anand Karaj (meaning ‘Blissful Union’). These events involve sacred commitments based on Sikh philosophy and the community’s values. The marriage ceremony has its roots in the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, one of the 10 Gurus who founded Sikhism in the 15th century. The ritual was formalised by Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, who composed the Lavan (the four hymns sung at the Sikh wedding ceremony).

Unlike a Western wedding, focused on legal contracts, the Anand Karaj is a spiritual journey where two souls become one in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Guru of the Sikhs.

It is not just about two individuals coming together, but about the coming together of two families and communities. The Sikh wedding ceremony emphasises equality, humility, and the common purpose of living a spiritual life as one.

If you’re planning a Sikh wedding and want every sacred moment captured beautifully, check out our Sikh Wedding Photography services in London, trusted by couples across the UK for cinematic, high-quality coverage.

Attires and Accessories for a Sikh Wedding in the UK

Sikh wedding attire in the UK is a symbol of tradition, reverence, and festival. The bride may choose to wear a Lehenga, Salwar-Kameez, or Anarkali suit in bright reds, maroons, or pastels with intricate embroidery as she is dressed traditionally. She can also put on Chooda, the red and white bangles, Kalirey (dangling ornaments that are tied to the bangles), and a head covering to be modest in the Gurdwara. The accessories include jewellery, which includes Maang Tikka, Nath (nose ring), and layered necklaces.

In traditional Sikh culture, the groom wears a Sherwani or Kurta-Pyjama with a matching Safa or turban that is colour-coordinated with the bride. They may also have a Kirpan (ceremonial sword) and Kalgi (turban ornament) representing courage and faith.

In the UK, many couples adapt these traditional styles to include modern silhouettes or designer touches while still honouring the cultural roots.

Royal Bindi specialises in Sikh wedding photography in the UK, ensuring every outfit, accessory, and sacred detail is documented with care, elegance, and true cultural insight.

Pre-Wedding Sikh Traditions

The lead-up to a Sikh wedding is filled with joy, colour, and meaningful rituals that bring families together. These pre-wedding traditions set the tone for the celebration and are just as significant as the big day itself.

Here are some pre-wedding celebrations you’ll see at a typical Sikh wedding in the UK:

Kurmai Ceremony / Roka /Rokha Ceremony

The Sikh Kurmai ceremony, or Roka ceremony / Rokha ceremony, is a vital step in a Sikh wedding, and it involves the official announcement of the engagement. Families exchange gifts and blessings, blending tradition and spirituality with prayers, sweet offerings, and traditional items.

The ceremony ends with a communal meal and heartfelt blessings for the couple’s future happiness. It is similar to a formal engagement ceremony, but the specific customs may vary among Sikh families and communities.

This ceremony symbolises the formal commitment between the couple and their families, marking the beginning of their journey together. It is often an intimate gathering of close relatives and friends, where both families come together to celebrate the union with joy and reverence.

Traditional rituals, such as the groom receiving a Kara (steel bracelet) or a shawl, further highlight the cultural significance of this event.

Modern interpretations of the Kurmai or Roka ceremony often include personalised elements like exchanging rings or incorporating contemporary decor, blending age-old traditions with a touch of modernity to create a truly memorable occasion.

Taka:

The Taka ceremony is a significant event during a Sikh wedding, specifically on the day of the Anand Karaj, which is the Sikh marriage ceremony.

Taka refers to the monetary offering made by the bride’s family to the groom. It symbolises the groom’s acceptance by the bride’s family and represents their willingness to support the couple in their new journey of married life.

Shagun:

Shagun is a ritual where the groom’s family visits the bride’s home with gifts, including clothes, jewellery, and sweets. This Sikh wedding ceremony is a gesture of acceptance and appreciation of the bride by the groom’s family.

This heartfelt ritual involves not only the exchange of gifts but also the celebration of the bond being formed between the two families. The items included in the shagun often carry symbolic meaning, representing blessings of prosperity, happiness, and good fortune for the couple’s future.

The bride’s family reciprocates by presenting gifts to the groom, strengthening the ties between the families. In contemporary weddings, the Shagun ceremony is often infused with personalised touches, such as customised gifts or themed presentations.

Chunni Ceremony:

In the Chunni Chadai ceremony, the groom’s family presents the bride with a colourful scarf or chunni, which she wears over her head as a symbol of acceptance into the groom’s family. This ceremony represents the bride becoming part of her new family.

This colourful ceremony is often accompanied by other symbolic gestures, such as the exchange of gifts, jewellery, and sweets, which further strengthen the bond between the two families.

The chunni, to cover the bride’s head, often intricately embroidered and vibrant in colour, is chosen with great care to reflect blessings, prosperity, and good fortune for the bride.

The ceremony is also an emotional moment, symbolising the blending of traditions, values, and relationships, making it a cherished memory for everyone involved. While deeply rooted in tradition, the Chunni Chadai ceremony has evolved over time, with modern couples adding personalised touches to make it uniquely their own.

Sagai:

Sagai, also known as the ring ceremony, is when the bride and groom exchange rings. The families and close relatives gather to witness this event, which symbolises the formal commitment between both the bride and groom. This is a special moment captured beautifully by Royal Bindi Photography in the UK.

Gana:

The Gana is another beautiful tradition observed at many Sikh weddings, which involves singing and music. Gana refers to the singing of wedding hymns and traditional wedding songs by friends, family, and professional musicians during the wedding festivities. The Gana adds a lively and celebratory atmosphere to the occasion with its melodious tunes and meaningful lyrics.

Akhand Path:

Akhand Path is a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs, that takes place at the bride or groom’s home or a gurdwara. This reading usually takes 48 hours and is a way to seek blessings for the couple’s upcoming wedding.

Mehndi:

Mehndi, or henna application, is a familiar pre-wedding ritual in many cultures, including Indian weddings. The bride’s hands and feet are adorned with intricate henna designs, symbolising beauty, auspiciousness, and love.

Sangeet:

Sangeet is a joyful event where both the groom and the bride’s friends and family come together to celebrate through music and dance. It involves singing traditional wedding songs, performing dances, and enjoying cultural performances.

Gharoli:

Gharoli is a ritual at the bride’s home before she leaves for the Sikh wedding ceremony. In this ceremony, the bride’s siblings and close relatives fill a pitcher (Barolo) with water from a nearby temple or Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship).

The water is considered sacred and is used for bathing the bride. The Gharoli ceremony signifies the purification and sanctification of the bride before her wedding.

Jago:

Jago is an exuberant pre-wedding ceremony at the groom’s house, where family members carry a decorated earthen pot with a lit lamp on their head. They go around the neighbourhood, singing and dancing, to announce the upcoming wedding, spread joy, and invite the community to join.

Also read: Top Traditional Jaggo Outfit Ideas for Sikh Weddings in the UK.

Maiyan Ceremony

The Maiya ceremony involves applying turmeric and sandalwood paste to the bride and groom’s bodies at their respective homes. This cleansing ritual is believed to purify them before the wedding.

Vatna:

Vatna is a similar ceremony to Maiya Sikh wedding tradition, where a mixture of turmeric, oil, and water is applied to the bride and groom’s bodies. This ritual is performed separately at the groom’s and bride’s houses and is believed to bring a radiant glow to their skin.

Nanki Shak:

“Nanki Shak” is a Sikh and Punjabi wedding custom after the bride prepares for the Sikh wedding ceremony. In this ritual, the bride’s maternal uncle (mama) or a respected elder from the family ties a necklace, known as the “Nanki,” around the bride’s neck.

The Nanki is usually made of gold or precious stones, symbolising love and protection. This ritual represents the bond between the bride and her maternal family and serves as a reminder of their love and support throughout her life.

Sikh Wedding Day Traditions

The wedding day is the heart of the Anand Karaj. Every moment holds profound cultural and emotional importance.

Here’s what you can expect to happen on the wedding day:

Chuda Ceremony / Chooda Ceremony

The Chuda ceremony or chooda ceremony takes place at the bride’s home, where her maternal uncle (mama) or an elder relative ties a set of red and white bangles (Chuda) on her wrists. The Chuda symbolises her marital status and is believed to bring good luck.

Sehra Bandi:

A ceremony where the groom ties a Sehra, a decorated veil, to his turban. It is a joyful moment symbolising the groom’s transition into married life.

Groom’s Arrival:

The groom walks to the wedding venue, usually a gurdwara (Sikh temple), accompanied by his family and friends. The bride’s family welcomes the groom with garlands, and both families exchange greetings. The bride’s father will usually apply a Teeka on the groom’s forehead as well.

Milni:

The Milni is a formal introduction ceremony between the two families. The male members of the bride’s and groom’s families greet and embrace each other as a sign of acceptance and union. This wedding ritual symbolises the coming together of the two families.

Anand Karaj

The Anand Karaj is the Sikh wedding ceremony conducted inside the Gurdwara. The bride and groom, their families, and the congregation sit in front of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji (Sikh Faith holy scripture). The ceremony is officiated by a Granthi (Sikh priest) who recites hymns and delivers a sermon on the significance of marriage.

Ardas and Hukamnama

Before the wedding ceremony begins, an Ardas (prayer) is offered, seeking blessings for the couple’s union. The Granthi then opens the Guru Granth Sahib Ji at a random page and reads the Hukamnama, a randomly chosen verse that provides guidance and blessings for the couple.

Laavan

The Laavan ceremony is the central part of the Anand Karaj. The couple walks around the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, with the Granthi reciting four hymns known as Laavan. These hymns symbolise the spiritual union and journey of the couple. After each Laavan, the bride and groom take a walk around the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Ardas, Kirtan, and Anand Sahib

After the Laavan ceremony, an Ardas is offered, expressing gratitude for the successful completion of the wedding ceremony. Kirtan (devotional singing) takes place, with hymns sung to celebrate the joyous occasion. The ceremony concludes with the recitation of Anand Sahib, a hymn that signifies bliss and happiness.

Lavan Pheras

Following the Anand Karaj, the couple exchanges garlands and circles around the Guru Granth Sahib Ji four times, representing their commitment to the four stages of marriage. This symbolises their acceptance of each other as life partners.

Reception

After the Anand Karaj, a reception or wedding party is typically held to celebrate the couple’s union with the groom and bride’s relatives. Family, friends, and well-wishers gather to offer their blessings, congratulate the bride and groom, and partake in joyful festivities.

Doli:

The doli ceremony marks the bride’s departure from her parental home. Her family members bid her farewell with blessings and good wishes.

Vidaai Ceremony:

The formal departure of the bride from the wedding venue as a married woman. It is a heartfelt and emotional moment as the bride leaves with her new family, symbolising her transition to her new life.

Our Sikh Wedding Photography services in London ensure every tradition, emotion, and detail on your special day is captured with elegance and precision.

Post Wedding Traditions

Once the formal ceremony ends, the celebrations continue with traditions symbolising the bride’s transition into her new home and life. These post-wedding customs blend emotion with festivity and often vary depending on the families and region.

Here are some of the post-wedding rituals in a typical Sikh wedding:

Welcome to the Groom’s House:

The bride, now a married woman, is warmly welcomed by the groom’s parents as she enters her new home. The family showers her with love, blessings, and gifts.

Griha Pravesh:

The bride is welcomed into her new home by performing a small ritual where she knocks over a vessel filled with rice, signifying the beginning of prosperity and happiness in her new household.

Chauthi:

A post-wedding ritual at the bride’s parental home is usually held on the fourth day after the wedding. The bride’s family needs to celebrate and bless the couple.

Pani Bharna:

The bride arrives at her parental home after marriage, where her family welcomes her with open arms and performs a small ritual of offering water to the bride as a symbol of rejuvenation.

First Visit to the Gurdwara:

The newlywed couple visits the Gurdwara together to seek blessings and offer gratitude for their marriage. They pray and seek guidance for a blissful married life.

Chakki Chadana:

Upon arriving at her new home, the bride is welcomed by grinding flour with a traditional stone grinder. It signifies her participation in household duties and nurturing the family.

Pag Phera:

After a few days of the wedding, the newlywed couple visits the bride’s parental home for a formal visit. It strengthens family ties and allows the couple to receive blessings from the bride’s parents.

Satyanarayan Katha:

A religious ceremony is often held within the first year of marriage, where the couple and their families gather to listen to the recitation of the Satyanarayan Katha, a Hindu religious narrative, seeking blessings for a prosperous married life.

Anand Sahib Path:

The couple recites the Anand Sahib, a hymn from the Guru Granth Sahib, together as a form of prayer, expressing gratitude for their blissful union and seeking blessings for a blissful married life.

Kirtan Darbar:

A devotional singing event is held after the wedding, where musicians and devotees sing hymns and praise to celebrate the newlywed couple. It creates an atmosphere of spirituality, joy, and communal celebration.

Langar Sewa:

The couple may perform seva (selfless service) by organising and serving Langar (community meal) at the Gurdwara or in their community. It is a way of giving back and spreading love and equality.

Step-by-Step Guide to Organising a Sikh Wedding Ceremony in the UK

If you plan to organise a Sikh wedding in the UK, it takes thoughtful coordination of Hindu cultural traditions, family preferences, and logistical details.
Here’s a simplified breakdown to help you get started:
- Consult with families early: You should always discuss expectations, budgets, and must-haves with both families to keep everyone aligned.
- Choose the right Gurdwara: When booking your Gurdwara for the Anand Karaj, popular venues like Gravesend Gurdwara and Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall are top choices for Sikh weddings in the UK. It’s important to check availability well in advance, especially during peak wedding seasons. Many require a pre-wedding consultation with the couple, so you should be prepared for that.
- Secure your Anand Karaj date: Book early, especially if you’re planning a summer or bank holiday wedding when venues are in high demand.
- Schedule civil registration separately: Sikh weddings aren’t legally binding in the UK, so you must officially register the marriage at a registry office.
- Plan pre-wedding events: Arrange traditional ceremonies like the Roka, Kurmai, Mehndi, and Sangeet at venues that suit your guest list and vibe.
- Coordinate food, décor, and outfits: You can typically opt for vegetarian catering, and align wedding outfits with traditional Sikh customs while adding modern UK-inspired touches.
- Book trusted vendors: Choose professionals who understand Sikh wedding norms. For seamless coverage of your special day, Royal Bindi offers expert Sikh wedding photography in the UK that captures every sacred and joyful moment with style and authenticity.

Sikh Wedding Etiquette and Protocols For Guests in the UK

If you are attending your first Sikh wedding in the UK, you should understand the cultural expectations to ensure you show respect and blend in with ease.
Here is what you should know:
- The ceremony usually takes place in a Gurdwara, where you must remove your shoes and cover your head. The bride or groom’s family usually provides scarves and bandanas if needed.
- Modest, traditional clothing is appreciated, though not strictly required. You should avoid wearing black or white, as these colours are associated with mourning. Seating in the Gurdwara is usually divided by gender, but mixed seating is becoming more common in the UK.
- You are not obligated to bring gifts or money envelopes (called Shagun), but they are welcome. During the ceremony, you are expected to maintain silence, refrain from taking photos (unless allowed), and avoid turning your back on the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
- Respectful participation goes a long way, and if you’re ever unsure, just follow the lead of those around you. A wedding specialist like Royal Bindi can also help guests feel comfortable by guiding them discreetly throughout the day.

Conclusion

Sikh weddings in the UK are a tapestry of cultural heritage, love, and togetherness. With their fusion of ancient customs and modern elegance, these celebrations create an enchanting experience for all. Whether you’re participating as a guest or planning your own wedding with a Punjabi Wedding Photographer, immerse yourself in the beauty and joy of these ceremonies as they unite families and create lasting memories.

Planning a Sikh wedding in the UK? Let Royal Bindi capture every moment with stunning cinematic photography and videography tailored to your big day.

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FAQ’s About Sikh Weddings in the UK

Here are the answers to some common questions about a Sikh wedding:

What happens at a Sikh wedding in the UK?

You’ll witness pre-wedding ceremonies, the Anand Karaj at the Gurdwara, and a lively reception. It blends Sikh rituals with joyful celebrations in a culturally respectful environment.

What is the Sikh way of marriage?

Marriage in Sikhism is a sacred spiritual union called Anand Karaj. It emphasises equality, devotion, and shared purpose, with the couple taking four rounds around the Guru Granth Sahib.

How long does a Sikh wedding last in the UK?

Typically, a Sikh wedding spans 2–4 days. It includes pre-wedding events, the Anand Karaj ceremony at the Gurdwara, and a celebratory reception that often lasts into the evening.

Who is invited to Sikh weddings?

Sikh weddings are generally inclusive. You can expect to see close family members, friends, and the wider community. Large gatherings reflect the family’s generosity and welcoming spirit.

What should you wear to a Sikh wedding in the UK?

Wear modest, colourful traditional attire. Women often wear sarees or suits, and men wear Kurta Pyjamas or suits. Covering your head inside the Gurdwara is required.

What will the food be like?

Expect delicious vegetarian Punjabi cuisine, often served buffet-style at both the Gurdwara and the reception.

What will the reception be like?

The reception is festive and lively, with music, dancing, speeches, and a meal. It’s a chance for families and friends to relax and celebrate the newlyweds.

What is the Sikh wedding music and dance?

Traditional Shabads are sung during the ceremony. The reception features lively Punjabi music, bhangra, and Bollywood hits!

Which colours are appropriate to wear to a Sikh wedding in the UK?

Rich, festive colours like red, gold, royal blue, green, and pink are suitable. Avoid white and black, as they’re traditionally associated with mourning in Sikh culture.

Is it permissible for a Sikh to marry a non-Sikh in the UK?

Yes, though it depends on the Gurdwara’s policy. Some permit Anand Karaj only between two Sikhs, while others allow interfaith couples if respectful of Sikh values.

What kind of gift should you bring to a Sikh wedding in the UK?

Monetary gifts in decorative envelopes (Shagun) are most common. Thoughtful home gifts or vouchers are also welcome. Avoid alcohol or leather items out of respect.

How much does it typically cost to host a Sikh wedding in the UK?

Costs range from £25,000 to £100,000+, depending on the guest count, venues, catering, attire, décor, and extras like dhol players and photography.

Are Sikh wedding ceremonies legally recognised in the UK?

No, Anand Karaj is a religious ceremony. A separate civil registration is required for the marriage to be legally recognised in the UK.

What traditional colours do Sikh brides wear on their wedding day?

Sikh brides traditionally wear red or maroon, symbolising prosperity and fertility. Modern UK brides may opt for pinks, golds, or other rich tones.

How many days does a traditional Sikh wedding last in the UK?

A traditional Sikh wedding lasts 2–4 days, with events like the Mehndi, Sangeet, Anand Karaj, and the reception spread over several days.

What is the Anand Karaj ceremony in Sikh weddings?

The Anand Karaj is the spiritual Sikh wedding ceremony held in a Gurdwara. It includes four sacred rounds (Lavan) around the Guru Granth Sahib.

Can a non-Sikh participate in an Anand Karaj ceremony in the UK?

Non-Sikhs can attend and respectfully observe. Participation may be limited depending on the Gurdwara’s policy. Proper decorum and dress code must be followed.

What is the significance of the Four Lavan hymns in Sikh marriage?

The Four Lavan represent commitment, unity, mutual growth, and divine love—four spiritual stages of the marital journey, each recited during a round around the Guru Granth Sahib.

Who covers the costs of a Sikh wedding in the UK?

Traditionally, the bride’s family covered most costs, but now it's common for both families to contribute or split expenses.

Are guests expected to sit on the floor during a Sikh wedding in the UK?

Yes, during the Anand Karaj in the Gurdwara, all guests sit cross-legged on the floor as a sign of equality and humility.

Is gift-giving customary at Sikh weddings in the UK?

Yes, guests usually give cash (Shagun) in an envelope to support the couple’s new journey. Physical gifts are less common but still acceptable.

What should you expect at a Sikh wedding reception in the UK?

Expect vibrant celebrations with music, dancing, food, and heartfelt speeches. It’s a joyful occasion for everyone to celebrate the new union.

Is alcohol served at Sikh weddings in the UK?

Alcohol is never served at the Gurdwara. It may be available at the reception, depending on the family's preferences.

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