Guru Nanak's Marriage - departure of the Doli, from a manuscript of the Janam Sakhi (Life Stories)

The beginning sections of the Janam Sakhi manuscripts describe events from Guru Nanak’s early life. The sections highlight episodes that do not directly relate to his teachings or his role as a religious leader but instead present him in his youth, as a student and as a family man. Guru Nanak’s personal life serves as a model of conduct 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 important in the narrative of Guru Nanak’s life as it shows him following the established social order; it also reflects the Sikh emphasis on family and community life. The painting here depicts a moment from Guru Nanak’s marriage celebrations when the groom’s wedding party is on its way to the bride’s home.