Wedding Ceremony (Anand Karaj)
Anand Karaj (Punjabi: ਅਨੰਦ ਕਾਰਜ, anand kāraj) is the name given to the Sikh wedding ceremony, literally translated as "Blissful Event or Occasion". Sikhs regard marriage as a sacred bond of mutual dependence between a man and a woman. A true partnership in marriage is made between those who are united in spirit as well as in mind and body. Marriage is regarded as a strong bond between the bride and groom and the relatives of both families - it is accepted as a joining of the two families into one as well. Based on a concept depicted in Laava, the Sikh marriage is not merely a physical and legal contract but is a fusion of the souls; a holy union between two souls, where physically they appear as two individual bodies but in fact are united as one. The couple must feel and think alike and both must be completely identified with the other, i.e. they need to become "Ek Jot Doe Murti" meaning "one spirit in two bodies".
Marriage in Australia can take place between a man and a woman, who are each at least eighteen years of age. Under certain circumstances a person may marry if they are under 18 years of age but he/she have to make a request to court and obtain permission. The marriage can be celebrated at any location in Australia but must be in the presence of a Registered Marriage Celebrant and at least two witnesses who are eighteen years of age or over.
There should be sufficient documentation provided to the celebrant for proof of birth and for divorce or death of previous spouse.
Appropriate wording should be spoken by the Celebrant and the couple according to the Marriage Act. A divorced person is not allowed to re-marry, unless his or her divorce from the previous marriage has been finalised. To do so would be bigamy. The second marriage would be void and penalties may be incurred. Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. Choosing the right marriage celebrant will make sure your day is a memorable one. You should ensure your proposed celebrant is authorised as a marriage celebrant under the Marriage Act 1961 by checking the Register of Marriage Celebrants or the List of Authorised Marriage Celebrants.
You should make an appointment to meet a celebrant if you are uncertain. It is also advisable to confirm your wedding arrangements in plenty of time before the day of marriage.
Marriage celebrants are encouraged to offer a choice of ceremonies where this is appropriate. You should feel comfortable with your celebrant and feel confident that he/she suits your needs and will complement your special day.
For further information, please contact
Harpal Singh on
0425 853 086
navee64@gmail.com