Sikh Weddings

Q: My boyfriend and I have just decided to get married. We're both Sikh, but I am not very religious, and don't know much about the various ceremonies involved. My boyfriend wants to get formally engaged by participating in a traditional Sikh engagement ritual, but I know nothing about it. Would you be able to offer some insight?

A: As in any other culture, the Sikh culture has certain traditions which are unique to it's people. The ceremony you have described is a religious and formal engagement ceremony. It is called the "Kurmai". These days, a Kurmai is not required, yet it is often performed among the highly religious members of the Sikh culture. Generally speaking, this ceremony is held approximately a week before the wedding. Traditionally speaking, the Kurmai is held in the home of the groom-to-be, and is met with the exchange of clothing and sweets between the engaged couple.