9th January 2024
In the last few months, a number of advisories and orders have been passed through the ‘takht’s’. A takht is a throne of seat of authority; and there are five takhts in total, which have special significance for the Sikh community. Three of which are located within India, with the remaining two being outside. The Akal Takht means the Eternal Throne, and is also the oldest of the five.
As and when changes are proposed, each takht announces it’s own ‘gurmat’ (advisory), for each Gurdwara to understand and implement accordingly.
READ: New Sikh Wedding Outfit Guidelines
READ: Destination Wedding Guidelines
We spoke to Nims Boutique, an online & Leicester-based boutique specialising in desi outfits & jewellery for all occasions, to hear their views.
Last month, the Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, situated in Nanded, passed the gurmat to recommend that brides opt for ‘salwar-kameez and chunni’ instead of heavy lehengas.
The advisory elaborates that it has been observed that brides who opt for wearing heavy lehengas with specific patterns, fabrics and silhouettes makes it difficult and disrespectful for them to perform the acts required during the ceremony: sitting down, standing up, paying their respects to the Grath Sahib during the ceremony.
In addition to this, they state there should be a scarf pinned and placed on the brides head throughout the duration of the ceremony.
Online brand, Nims Boutique, has been the go-to destination for wedding outfits, accessories, footwear and so much more. Following the advisories, they have expanded their readymade salwar-kameez & suits collections to align accordingly.
As an extension to the outfit advisory, the Hazur Sahib has also issues guidelines concerning the Sikh wedding ceremony cards. The gurmat stresses the inclusion of the traditional suffixes of ‘Singh’ and ‘Kaur’ on wedding invitations; as a reflection of their commitment to uphold Sikh traditions.
As a bride often enters with a flower canopy over her head, the Takht has advised that this is not right and flowers should not be showered on the bride as she enters for her ceremony. This is often referred to as the ‘phoolon ki chadar’.
In October, the Shri Akal Takht Sahib imposed a complete ban on performing the Anand Karaj Sikh wedding ceremony in a destination wedding. The decision was made due to the complaints of religious conduct violation, specifically when occurring at places like sea beaches and resorts.
The advisories and announcements have seen concerns being expressed throughout various social media platforms, and arguments that guidelines limit personal expression through wedding attire, and much more. For those who are planning a Sikh wedding ceremony, we strongly suggest consulting with your Gurdwara and Granthi on how to proceed.
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