The couple, both professionals residing abroad—Singh in Melbourne and Kaur in France—chose to register their marriage in Kochi due to the bride's family's deep-rooted connections to the city. Nimmi's father, Surinder Singh Sethi, explained that despite their origins in Patiala, Punjab, the family's long-standing residence in Kochi made it a convenient location for the registration.
Following the registration, the couple and their families celebrated at the Sikh Gurudwara in Thevara, Kochi. The ceremony included traditional prayers, the sharing of prasad (sacred offering), and a communal meal, embodying the rich Sikh customs. The Sethi family's presence in Kochi spans several decades, with ventures in the automobile industry and the establishment of 'Sethi Da Dhaba' in Kadavanthra, reflecting their integration into the local community.
This event underscores the cultural diversity of Kerala, a state known for its inclusive ethos. The successful registration of a Sikh marriage highlights the adaptability of local administrative processes to accommodate various cultural practices. In Kerala, marriages are typically registered under the Special Marriage Act, which allows for interfaith and intercultural unions without necessitating religious conversion.
The Sikh marriage ceremony, known as 'Anand Karaj'—meaning 'Act towards happiness'—was introduced by Guru Amar Das and is traditionally conducted in a Gurudwara. While the religious ceremony is pivotal, legal registration is essential to ensure the marriage's recognition under civil law.
The Sethi family's decision to register the marriage in Kochi, followed by a traditional ceremony at the Golden Temple in Punjab, exemplifies the blend of adherence to cultural traditions and compliance with legal formalities. This approach not only honors their heritage but also ensures the marriage's validity across different jurisdictions.