New dress code for Sikh brides at Anand Karaj: No revealing clothes, lehengas, ghagras and more

Nanded: A new dress code has been decided for Sikh brides. The Shri Hazur Sahib Takht in Maharashtra's Nanded has passed a resolution, imposing a new dress code for brides, prohibiting them from lehengas and ghagras during Anand Karaj. Brides are also directed to not wear revealing clothes in the name of fashion to the 'Takht'. These instructions have also been given in view of the increasing practice of ostentation during marriages and ceremonies.

Takht, which translates to a throne or seat of authority in a gurdwara, has a very special significance for the Sikh community.

According to Panch Singh Sahibs, there should be a scarf on the head. The jathedar (leader) of Takht Shir Hazur Sahib, Kulwinder Singh, directed women only wear suits during Anand Karaj, adding that wearing a heavy lehenga makes it difficult for the bride to bow before Guru Sahib. They have added that the rule is aimed at providing ease to the bride in taking 'pheras' during Anand Karaj. 

The decision was taken during a meeting on Friday, which was held under the chairmanship of Jathedar Kulwinder Singh and Singh Sahibano. 

No flower shower

Apart from this, he said that it is seen that when the girl is brought for a trip, the family members bring a canopy of flowers over the girl's head (phoolon ka chadar). This is not right. Flowers should not be showered on the bride. Directive has also been given that mentioning Singh or Kaur surnames in front of the names of the bride and groom, respectively, on the marriage invitation cards has been made mandatory.

Singh Sahibs have urged the Sikh community to follow these guidelines. Strict action will be taken against those who do not comply. On Saturday, Shiromani Gurdwara Management Committee also welcomed the decisions taken regarding marriages in the Sikh community at Takht Hazur Sahib.

Earlier, Panch Singh Sahiban had imposed a complete ban on performing Anand Karaj at destination weddings at Shri Akal Takht Sahib. This has been said to be against Sikh dignity. Now no person will be able to celebrate the marriage of any of his family members by taking the form of Sri Guru Granth Sahib to any beach or any other wedding destination.