Kamloops Indian Sikh Wedding Photographer Photography

Kamloops Indian Sikh Wedding

Incredible. This is one of the first words that jumps to mind when I think about Rob + Nisha’s amazing two day Indian wedding. From the vibrant colors of all the outfits, to the Indian traditions, I was in photographer’s heaven. Nisha and Rob are also two of the most stunning human beings inside and out.

Nisha is wise beyond her years, smart, gorgeous, kind and strong, and Rob is charismatic, hilarious, warm and has a great energy. The two of them together compliment one another’s personalities so well. Hanging out with them throughout both days was like hanging out with old friends – so chill and relaxed! I’ve described some of the traditions throughout the blog post so enjoy! Love you two so much! xo

Reception of Barat (groom’s family) and Milni (meeting of both families) For Rob’s grand entrance he came in on a beautiful white horse and was greeted by all his friends and family in front of the Gurdwara (Temple).

Before the milni begins an Ardaas (prayer) is carried out, which is necessary to begin any happy occasion.

The milni involves the relations from each side (beginning with the eldest) to put a haar (garland) on one another and hug and pose for a photo. It’s tradition to try and playfully pick the other person up while they greet. From there everyone heads inside to eat a delicious breakfast before the ceremony begins. Meanwhile Nisha is hiding in a separate room until the ceremony begins!
Anand Karaj (Ceremony)
In the prayer room everyone walks down the aisle and makes an offering and then completes matha tekh. This is where you bow down and place your forehead to the ground to show respect to the Guru Granth Sahib (holy book). Men sit on one side and the women on the other.
The ceremony was like nothing I had ever seen before and included 4 laavans (marital hymns) and 4 rounds around the altar. Each laavan signifies a different spiritual element of marriage and commitment to each other. Nisha’s brother and family walk with her during the different rounds, with Rob leading the way.

The bride and groom are connected by the groom’s wedding scarf, that signifies that her father has now “given his daughter away” to her new husband.

After the 4th round is complete, the couple is officially married. Now the wedding guests give the couple a Sagan (blessing) in the form of money. From there it’s time for langar (a delicious Indian lunch!) This was probably one of the most emotional parts from the wedding. The Doli ceremony is where family members and close friends from both sides come to the bride’s home. They wait for the groom to “win” his way in to the house to take his bride away. The bride’s sister and cousins give the groom a series of tasks or dares to complete in order for him to gain entry. No matter how well he does, he usually has to pay his way in. This was so meaningful because Nisha was still living at home, and this ceremony signified Rob actually taking her from her childhood home to start a new life with him.