Guest Peter Baldwin performing a traditional Indian ribbon dance during Sangeet. His performance next July is highly anticipated.
One of the traditions we wanted to include in our Indian wedding is known as "Sangeet," where friends and family of the couple choreograph and perform dances to different songs to celebrate the occasion.
Among the many pre-wedding events that occur prior to the Hindu, Punjabi, and Gujrati wedding ceremonies, the Sangeet is where the party begins. Traditionally celebrated in the Punjab regions of India, this ceremony has been adopted by many other regions as a form of celebration for the wedding to come. The event was formally known to comprise of only female attendees from both sides of the family, however modern times allow for men to join in on the fun too. Unlike religious ceremonies such as the Haldi or portions of the wedding ceremony, the Sangeet is solely conducted to relish in the happiness and joy surrounding the couple.
The word “Sangeet “ means music, but when it is used as a term to describe a celebratory event during an Indian wedding it translates to "Music Night" or "Musical party." This musical night is a celebration of the union of not only the couple but the bonding of both families. It is here that both sides bring down their barriers and mingle in a fun environment.
As of now, we are officially recruiting friends and family to volunteer to put together choreographed dances at the Indian wedding - please reach out to us if you'd like to volunteer!
What song should I pick?
Indian weddings mostly have Hindi/Punjabi songs. People not only use the latest songs but also prefer old Bollywood songs. Sometimes it also depends on themes. Some popular songs for this season are - ainvayi ainvayi (band baja baraat), chikni chameli (agneepath), saddi gali (tanu weds manu), Chammak challo (r.a one), subha hone na de (desi boys), oh la la (dirty picture). Other great options are: Gallan Goodiyaan, Girls like to Swing, Uptown Funk, and anything Michael Jackson.
Should I hire a choreographer?
We have heard that a new trend in Indian weddings is people hiring choreographers for their performances. This is absolutely not necessary! This event is casual and fun, and you should feel free to put together something simple as last minute as the day before. The important thing is that we get people out on the dance floor!
How do I choreograph the dance with friends who don't live in my city?
One idea is to find a video of a dance (or hire a choreographer to put one together) and circulate the video so that everyone can practice on their own. When you meet at the wedding you can put it all together!
When will I perform?
The dances will happen after dinner.
What do I wear?
You can go as crazy as you want, but it is absolutely fine to just wear what you're already wearing to the Indian wedding!