Reacting sharply to the viral video, former Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Raghbir Singh said the footage purportedly shows a couple in Pakistan performing the Anand Karaj while circumambulating Sri Guru Granth Sahib along with their pet dog, an act he described as a grave violation of Sikh religious maryada
19 June, 2026 – Chandigarh : A video purportedly showing a bride walking her pet dog around Guru Granth Sahib during an Anand Karaj ceremony has gone viral on social media, triggering a heated debate over religious sensitivity and adherence to Sikh traditions.
The clip, whose location and date could not be independently verified, shows a bride and groom performing the traditional laavaan, the four circumambulations around Guru Granth Sahib that solemnise a Sikh marriage, while the couple’s dog walks alongside them.
The video has drawn sharp reactions online, with many social media users questioning how the animal was allowed inside the venue during the sacred ceremony and whether the act violated Sikh religious maryada (code of conduct). One wrote, “the dog got married too”, another wrote: “What a joke”.
Several users described the scene as disrespectful to Sikh traditions, arguing that Anand Karaj is a solemn religious ceremony conducted in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib and requires strict adherence to established protocols.
Others urged caution, saying the full context of the video should be established before conclusions are drawn.
An Anand Karaj, meaning “blissful union”, is the Sikh marriage ceremony performed in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib. The bride and groom walk around the holy scripture four times as hymns known as Laavaan are sung. The ceremony is regarded as sacred, and gurdwaras generally follow guidelines laid down under Sikh maryada concerning decorum, attire and conduct inside the premises.
The video has reignited discussions on social media about the growing trend of personalising weddings and where the line should be drawn when religious ceremonies are involved. Many users said modern expressions should not come at the cost of religious sanctity, while others argued that a balanced conversation was needed.
Former Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Raghbir Singh slams video, seeks action
Reacting sharply to the viral video, former Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Giani Raghbir Singh said the footage purportedly shows a couple in Pakistan performing the Anand Karaj while circumambulating Sri Guru Granth Sahib along with their pet dog, an act he described as a grave violation of Sikh religious maryada.
He urged the incumbent Jathedar of Akal Takht to take strict religious and legal action against the couple. Giani Raghbir Singh also called for a religious and social boycott of those who allegedly facilitated the ceremony and provided the Saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib for the wedding.
“The sanctity and reverence associated with Sri Guru Granth Sahib are paramount in Sikhism and cannot be compromised under any circumstances,” he said, adding that such incidents hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community worldwide.
The former Jathedar’s remarks come amid growing outrage on social media, where many users have questioned how the ceremony was allowed to take place and demanded action against those responsible. However, the exact location of the ceremony and the authenticity of the viral video have not been independently verified.
The Tribune