The Sikh Rehat Maryada presents the marriage ceremony, Anand Karaj, as a sacred union of two Sikhs who commit to walk a shared spiritual path. It emphasizes that the partners are equal participants, bound not by caste, clan, or social status, but by mutual consent and a resolve to live as Sikhs in accordance with the code of conduct. The ceremony is religious in nature rather than merely social, and it is understood as a lifelong bond of fidelity and shared spiritual growth. Both bride and groom must be Sikhs, of marriageable age, mentally competent to consent, and free from the constraints of caste-based restrictions. The presence and consent of families, while important as witnesses, do not override the centrality of the couple’s own commitment.

The Rehat Maryada requires that the ceremony take place in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, either in a gurdwara or any suitably prepared place where the Guru is respectfully installed. The environment is to be dignified, simple, and focused on Gurbani, with kirtan and the sangat gathered as witnesses. No separate priestly class is necessary; any Sikh versed in Gurbani may conduct the ceremony, explaining the Sikh understanding of marriage and the significance of the proceedings. The ceremony is to be held during daylight hours, and the presence of both families underscores the communal dimension of the union, while still centering the spiritual covenant being made before the Guru.

At the heart of Anand Karaj are the four Laavan, the hymns of Guru Ram Das that articulate stages of spiritual union. Before each circumambulation, the corresponding verse is read, then sung, as the couple walks clockwise around Sri Guru Granth Sahib, with the bride traditionally holding one end of the groom’s scarf (palla). After each round, the couple bows before the Guru, symbolizing that their relationship is anchored in divine guidance rather than mere personal preference. Ragis may sing the Laavan, and the officiant may explain their meaning, so that the couple and congregation understand the spiritual commitments being undertaken. With the completion of the four Laavan and four circumambulations, the religious aspect of the marriage is considered complete.

The ceremony is framed and sealed by Ardas offered before and after, by taking a hukam (a verse selected from the Guru Granth Sahib), and by the distribution of karah prashad as a shared blessing. Throughout, the Rehat Maryada firmly rejects practices that conflict with Sikh principles, such as idol worship, horoscope consultations, fire rituals, or any non-Sikh religious rites. Dowry is explicitly forbidden, and ostentatious displays of wealth or extravagance are discouraged, so that the focus remains on spiritual commitment rather than social show. Alcohol, tobacco, and intoxicants are not permitted in connection with the ceremony or within the gurdwara setting, preserving the sanctity and sobriety of the occasion. In this way, the Rehat Maryada shapes marriage as a disciplined, grace-filled step on the Sikh path, grounded in simplicity, equality, and devotion to the Guru.