Guru Nanak's marriage - the reception of the wedding party, from a manuscript of the Janam Sakhi (Life Stories)

The beginning sections of the Janam Sakhis manuscripts describe events from Guru Nanak's early life. They highlight episodes that do not directly relate to his teachings or his role as a religious leader but instead present him as a youth, a student, and a family man. Through a view of this personal journey and social responsibilities, Guru Nanak becomes a model for his followers.

At age sixteen, the guru was married to Sulakhani, the daughter of a pious merchant, with whom he had two sons. This event is of importance in the narrative of Guru Nanak's life as it shows him following the established social order, while also reflecting the Sikh emphasis on family and community life. The painting here depicts a moment from Guru Nanak's marriage celebrations. The youthful guru, accompanied by his companions, is seen at the right dressed in the sumptuous clothing of a bridegroom. He is conversing with an elderly man seated across from him, presumably the bride's father or relative. The presence of musicians suggests the festive nature of the occasion.