As Edmonton Wedding Photographers, we often get to photograph Punjabi or Sikh Weddings. Each culture in India has its customs and traditions that are entirely different. One of the cultures that we came across is Sikh. Some people also call them Punjabis. One of the most important events in any Sikh wedding is the Jago or Jaggo ceremony. Nandini being an Indian, always helped us navigate the Indian Wedding traditions a bit easier. Being multilingual also definitely helps here. Not many people know of these traditions, so we created this blog post. If you are planning a wedding, you need to read about how to create a Punjabi/ Sikh Indian wedding timeline here.
Who are Sikhs or Punjabi?
Firstly, let’s talk about Sikhs. Sikhs are people who follow Sikhism (religion). Sikhism teaches that God is neither born nor dead. Sikh communities foster love, equality and acceptance of all. Hence serving the world is a natural expression of Sikh prayer and worship.
Punjabi is a regional identity. It refers to anyone born or has ancestors in Punjab ( a state in India and Pakistan). A Punjabi can be a Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian etc. The Sikh religion has limited itself to the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent. Hence Sikhs are mostly confused with Punjabis. Both Sikh and Punjabi people use the Punjabi Language. Not every Sikh is a Punjabi. Similarly, not every Punjabi is a Sikh.
Let’s talk about Jaggo or Jago Ceremony
What does the Jago or Jaggo ceremony mean? It means “wake up” It is a celebration initiated by the maternal families of both the Bride and the Groom. The families arrive at the wedding venue with much fanfare. They also sing and dance. The female relatives take turns carrying a gagger (a decorated earthen pot lit with candles) while singing and dancing. Along with the earthen pot, people dance with a decorated stick with Bells attached. Jago is held a day or two before the wedding.
What happens during the Jago ceremony?
- The relatives recite Boliyan (Couplets). Sometimes this becomes like a competition between the relatives of the bride & groom competing against each other with recitals.
- They also perform Gidda (the traditional folk dance of Punjab) and Bhangra. It also becomes a competition between the Nankai ( maternal) and Daadkai (paternal family). Each side tries to outdo the other.
The Jago or Jaago ceremony is not just part of the Sikh tradition in India but also part of the Wedding tradition in Pakistan. The ceremony is loud and filled with joy, dancing, fireworks and food.
The idea is to celebrate the wedding of two people and make merry by dancing and partying.
Venue: Meridian Banquets
Decor: Infinity Event Services
Here are a few articles that will help you with the planning.
Check our Jaskaran’s Sikh wedding here
How to create a Punjabi/ Sikh Indian wedding timeline
How to look best in Wedding Photos
How to plan a wedding in Alberta once you get engaged
5 things couples should do to prepare for their Wedding getting ready photos
Unique Winter Wedding Venues in Edmonton
Outdoor Wedding Venues in Edmonton
Banquet Hall Wedding Venues in Edmonton
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments
Could I know what is the right procedure or way to pick up jaggo by maternal family members. Is Jaggo a sacred ceremony?
Thanks
Surinder
What should I wear to Jaggo which is followed by dinner?