Learn the signification of the 4 pheras in sikh wedding ceremony

The Sikh wedding, also called "Anand Karaj" and "Blissful Union", is a portrayal of elegance, serenity, and purity. Marriage is a very important part of Sikhism because considering that it brings two extended families together. As a matter of fact, the Sikh consider marriage a sacred institution, not being a merely physical and legal relationship. The marriage ceremony traditionally takes place in a Gurdwara, a place of worship. Yet, more and more couples are opting for something different. More precisely, they choose to have a Sikh Destination Wedding Cancun. Even though the marriage of the couple’s traditions and styles does not take place in the Gurdwara, the Sikh Wedding Ceremony Priest still performs the sacred four nuptial rounds. The pheras of the Anand Karaj are commonly known as "lavaan". Lavaan stands for "break away" and it makes sense considering that the bride breaks away from her parents’ house and begins a new life. Each of the hymns has a special meaning and describes the union between two souls.

The first Lavaan says that married status is the norm for a Sikh and that it is the ideal. Simply put, marriage is considered the best state of life for a follower of Sikhism. Special emphasis is laid on duty to the family and the community. What the first verse of the nuptial round does is tell the bride and the groom to stay on the path or righteousness. The one who gives the couple these instructions is the Lord. The second Lavaan raises consciousness to a higher level. The bride and the groom are advised to begin a new life in partnership. The couple is asked to forget about materialistic things and to start looking for the true guru. Basically, the two have to awaken to their new life. The third Lavaan refers to the stage of the detachment. More precisely, the hymn asserts that the bride is to detach from the world and all influences from the outside. What she has to do is become completely devoted to her husband, accepting to become something of a saint. At this stage of the ceremony, the hearts of bride and the groom have to be filled with love for the Lord. Last but not least, the fourth Lavaan depicts the union in married life. At this point, the husband and wife have found their balance because they have reached the Lord.

The family participates as much as possible, making sure that the reading is not interrupted. The rituals and functions of the Anand Karaj can last up to a week. It is important to stress that a number of cultural customs are performed during and after the marriage ceremony. For example, many families organize parties before the actual reception. All in all, the Anand Karaj is full of sacredness and, most importantly, love. If you have ever attended a Sikh wedding, then you know that the ceremony leaves you mesmerized. If you have never witnessed such a ceremony, you do not know how much organization and preparation it takes.

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