Long before the Ambanis made headlines with lavish weddings, the Sikh Empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh set an unmatched standard of royal splendor. On March 7, 1837, the wedding of Kanwar Nau Nihal Singh (grandson of Ranjit Singh) and Bibi Nanaki Kaur (granddaughter of legendary general Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala) became a historic spectacle that still dazzles imaginations today.
Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala contributed ₹17 lakh, hosting festivities from his village Kaunke.
Extravagance That Shook the World
Gifts of Gold, Not Blankets: Guests were honored with gold coins (seals) and elite Arabian horses instead of typical shagun.
The Diamond Sehra: A jewel-studded ceremonial veil so magnificent that Ranjit Singh himself offered it at Sri Harmandir Sahib as Guru’s tribute.
Shower of Wealth: Chronicles describe literal “rains of gold coins” thrown in celebration.
Why This Wedding Still Matters
This wasn’t just a marriage—it was a statement of Sikh sovereignty:
Cultural Pride: Punjab’s artisans, musicians, and chefs showcased the empire’s richness.
Military Might: Sardar Sham Singh’s presence symbolized the Khalsa’s unbreakable strength.
Spiritual Humility: Despite the opulence, the Maharaja bowed to Guru Granth Sahib Ji, balancing power with piety.
A Lost Legacy?
Today, as Punjabis migrate worldwide, many forget that their ancestors once set global benchmarks. This wedding reminds us:
We were trendsetters, not followers.
Our history is richer than any foreign dream.
True wealth lies in preserving heritage, not abandoning it.
Let’s revive this pride. Share this story—not just as a fairy tale, but as proof of what Punjab once was… and can be again.
✨ “ਰਾਜ ਕਰੇਗਾ ਖਾਲਸਾ!” ✨ (The Khalsa Shall Reign!)
📜 Fun Fact: The wedding feast included 100,000 kg of ghee, 50,000 kg of sugar, and tons of dry fruits—served on solid silver plates. Now that’s a Punjabi buffet! 🍛🔥
