A First-Timer’s Guide to What to Expect at a Sikh Wedding in the UK

If you’ve received a beautiful Sikh wedding invitation and are about to attend your first Sikh wedding in the UK, get ready for a soul-stirring and vibrant experience. Sikh weddings are a rich blend of spiritual devotion, community bonding, and colourful celebration. Rooted in the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, yet adapted seamlessly into British culture, Sikh weddings in the UK are among the most memorable multicultural events.

At ShadiCards.com, we’ve proudly worked with hundreds of Sikh couples across the UK to create bespoke Anand Karaj invitations, helping us understand the beauty and depth of these meaningful ceremonies.

What Is a Sikh Wedding (Anand Karaj)?

Anand Karaj, meaning "blissful union," is the official Sikh marriage ceremony. It’s a spiritual and sacred event conducted in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the central religious scripture of Sikhism.

Unlike many other wedding traditions, Sikh weddings emphasise equality, humility, and community. The bride and groom are seen as two equal souls walking together on a spiritual path.

Key Sikh Wedding Ceremonies in the UK

1. Roka or Thaka

• Purpose: Marks the formal agreement between both families for the marriage.

• Expect: Intimate gathering with gift exchanges and blessings.

• Invitations: Usually informal, often not requiring a printed card.

2. Maiyaan & Haldi

• Purpose: Cleansing ceremonies using turmeric paste (also popular in Hindu and Muslim weddings).

• Expect: Family-led rituals, yellow clothing, traditional songs.

• Invites: Often sent as part of a pre-wedding events insert.

3. Chunni Ceremony (For the Bride)

• Purpose: The groom’s family formally covers the bride’s head with a Chunni, symbolising respect and acceptance.

• Expect: Gift exchanges, family bonding, traditional attire.

• Invitations: Usually included with engagement or main invite.

4. Jaggo (Night Before Celebration)

• Purpose: A lively night of music and dancing to awaken the neighbourhood for the upcoming wedding.

• Expect: Singing, dhol drums, food, and colourful outfits.

• Stationery Tip: Often printed separately as a Jaggo Night Invite.

5. The Anand Karaj (Wedding Ceremony)

• Venue: Typically held at a Gurdwara (Sikh Temple).

• Key Features:

  • Conducted by a Granthi (priest) who reads the Lavan (four hymns).

  • The couple circles the Guru Granth Sahib Ji four times, each round symbolising a stage in spiritual life.

  • No vows are exchanged between the couple—commitment is made in the presence of God.

• Attire: Modest and traditional—brides wear lehengas or salwar kameez, grooms wear sherwanis and turbans.

• Guest Etiquette: Head covering required; shoes removed before entering the prayer hall.

6. Langar (Community Meal)

• Purpose: Serves as a free vegetarian meal for all guests, reinforcing equality and humility.

• Expect: Buffet-style setup on the Gurdwara premises.

• Dress Code: Traditional and modest.

7. Reception Party

• Purpose: A post-wedding celebration filled with music, speeches, and feasting.

• Venue: Often held at banquet halls, hotels, or marquees.

• Expect: DJ, dance floor, speeches, and sometimes open bars.

• Stationery Tip: Often requires a separate Reception Card or mentioned in the main invite.

Cultural Adaptations in the UK

While Anand Karaj remains the spiritual heart of a Sikh wedding, many UK Sikh families adapt elements to reflect their modern lifestyle. You may see:

• Wedding websites with full itineraries

• QR codes on invitations for RSVPs and directions

• Mixed-language stationery (Punjabi and English)

• Multi-faith venue setups for joint ceremonies

Sikh Wedding Invitations at ShadiCards.com

At ShadiCards.com, we specialise in designing elegant and meaningful Sikh wedding invitations. Our most popular options include:

• Anand Karaj Invitations featuring Ik Onkar or Khanda symbols

• Foiled and embossed Gurmukhi script cards

• Eco-friendly invites for Gurdwara-based weddings

• QR code integrations for guest convenience

🎨 Design favourites include:

• Floral Khanda overlays

• Traditional red and gold colour schemes

• Minimalist modern Sikh invitations for UK couples

Dress Code for Guests

💡 Note: Sikh weddings emphasize modesty—avoid revealing clothing, and always bring a head covering for the Gurdwara.

Etiquette Tips for Non-Sikh Guests

• Arrive on Time: Anand Karaj ceremonies begin early, often by 10:00 AM.

• Cover Your Head: Essential for entering the Gurdwara (scarves and handkerchiefs are usually provided).

• No Alcohol at Gurdwara Events: Alcohol is strictly forbidden on temple premises.

• Separate Seating: Men and women may sit on opposite sides during the religious ceremony.

• Respect the Scripture: Do not turn your back on the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Food and Dining

• Langar Meal: Vegetarian meal served to everyone in the Gurdwara.

• Reception Feast: Can include a full Punjabi menu—paneer, chana masala, biryani, gulab jamun, etc.

• Modern Additions: Dessert tables, mocktail bars, and vegan options.

Technology in Sikh Weddings: QR Codes & More

UK-based Sikh weddings are becoming more digital-savvy. Couples are using:

• QR codes on invitations for RSVP forms, directions, and gift registries

• Wedding websites for schedules, attire guides, and photo galleries

• Digital save-the-dates before formal printed cards are sent

📊 Stats: Over 65% of Sikh couples in the UK now include QR codes or digital links with their wedding invitations for easier guest engagement.

Final Thoughts

A Sikh wedding in the UK is a beautiful blend of spirituality, tradition, and joyful celebration. Whether you’re attending the sacred Anand Karaj or dancing at the reception, your experience will be rich with culture and community warmth.

At ShadiCards.com, we’re honoured to be part of these memorable events by providing stunning Sikh wedding stationery that reflects each couple’s unique story, heritage, and style.

Looking for Sikh Wedding Invitations?

Visit ShadiCards.com for:

✅ Traditional Anand Karaj Cards
✅ Custom Sikh Wedding Invitations
✅ Digital + Print Options
✅ Pre-wedding Inserts (Jaggo, Maiyaan, Reception)
✅ Foiling, laser cut, and eco-friendly styles