A Sikh Wedding at Gurdwara Singh Sabha & Fort Garry
A Sikh wedding is a sacred blend of tradition, love, and community — and this recent celebration was no exception. From the vibrant Mayan and Jaggo ceremonies to a meaningful Anand Karaj at Sturgeon Gurdwara Singh Sabha and a stunning Fort Garry Hotel reception, every moment was filled with beauty, emotion, and cultural richness.
The festivities began with the Mayan ceremony, a traditional pre-wedding ritual held at the homes of both the bride and groom. Family members lovingly applied a turmeric paste to the couple, symbolizing purification and the beginning of a new chapter. The atmosphere was filled with music, joy, and the warmth of close family.
The night before the wedding, the bride’s family hosted a lively Jaggo ceremony — one of the most spirited parts of Punjabi weddings. As the sun set, family and friends took to the streets carrying decorated pots with candles, singing and dancing to traditional songs. The Jaggo wasn’t just a pre-wedding party — it was a beautiful expression of community, joy, and cultural pride.
At dawn, the wedding day began with a deeply spiritual Anand Karaj ceremony at Gurdwara Singh Sabha. Surrounded by loved ones, the couple walked around the Guru Granth Sahib, exchanging vows as the sacred hymns of Kirtan filled the hall. It was a ceremony full of peace, meaning, and reverence.
Afterward, guests were invited to the Langar hall for a traditional communal meal — an essential part of Sikh weddings symbolizing equality, service, and unity.
Following the ceremony, we made our way to Assiniboine Park near The Leaf for the couples’ photoshoot. While a minor mishap with the groom’s shoes shortened our time, the couple took it in stride, laughing and enjoying the moment. Despite the delay, we captured a series of portraits that radiated joy and love — and we knew there would be more time for portraits the next day at the reception.
The following evening, the celebrations continued with a grand reception at the iconic Fort Garry Hotel. The ballroom was transformed into a dazzling space filled with glowing lights, elegant florals, and joyful energy. Guests were welcomed with a feast of flavorful Indian cuisine and a warm, celebratory atmosphere.
The couple’s first dance was heartfelt and cinematic, followed by moving speeches that brought both laughter and tears. Family and friends shared memories and blessings, deepening the emotional resonance of the evening.
As the night progressed, the dance floor erupted with energy, from classic Bhangra to Bollywood hits. Guests danced with full hearts, celebrating the love that brought everyone together.
The perfect end to an unforgettable evening: a breathtaking fireworks display lit up the night sky, symbolizing the bright future ahead for the newlyweds. It was a true grand finale, leaving everyone in awe and joy.
From the sacred rituals at Sturgeon Gurdwara to the high-energy reception at Fort Garry Hotel, this Sikh wedding was a beautiful tapestry of culture, love, and celebration. Every tradition — from Mayan and Jaggo to the Anand Karaj and Langar — played a part in making the experience deeply meaningful. It was an honor to witness and capture each moment for this incredible couple.