What Does Sangeet Mean?
When translated, Sangeet literally means “music” or “sung together” in Hindi — hence, the theme for the party. It is traditionally celebrated in the Punjab regions of India but has been adopted by other Indian regions in recent years. Sangeet was typically a female-only event but has now become an opportunity for all relatives and friends to celebrate the bride and groom together. Sangeet is different from other religious wedding ceremonies because its sole purpose is to bask in the happiness and excitement surrounding the couple.
What Are the Traditions of a Sangeet?
A Sangeet can feel very similar to a reception with all the singing, dancing and food. While the intention of a Sangeet is to focus on the sheer joy of the couple’s upcoming union, there are two key elements that structure a successful celebration.
- Choreographed dance performances: Close friends and family of the bride and groom will perform rehearsed dance routines on a stage or designated dance floor. The traditional Gujarati Sangeet ceremony includes Garba performances, a traditional Gujarat dance by women in vibrant garments and dresses who clap their hands and move in circles to keep in tune with the music.
2. Singing of traditional songs: The female members from both sides of the family join to sing traditional songs to the bride and groom. Often, it’s the elder relatives that handle the song selection. Songs are usually about the bride leaving home, how to have a successful marriage, and jokes about the in-laws.
How Long Does a Sangeet Last?
Traditionally, Sangeet celebrations used to stretch over a 10-day period. Now, the modern-day approach has become much simpler to allow for all wedding events to take place within a week. The Sangeet is usually hosted at the bride’s house or at a separate venue like an event ballroomfor one evening one to three days before the actual wedding ceremony.
What Do You Wear to a Sangeet?
Bright colors are always in fashion at a Sangeet ceremony. Choose something that’s colorful and fun, yet comfortable to wear as you dance the night away. You’ll want to choose an outfit that’s unique but not too elaborate as you never want to take attention away from the bride and groom.
Formal Western clothing is appropriate, but if you’re open to wearing traditional Indian clothing, the families will appreciate that you have embraced their culture.
- Ranging from semi-formal to formal, men can wear kurtas, Jodhpuris or sherwanis. All are appropriate and comfortable suit choices for a Sangeet.
- Women can wear a lehenga, sari or salwar. The lehenga and sari can be far more formal and complicated if you’re not used to the attire. The salwar can be a less intimidating option and very comfortable.
Will There Be an Open Dance Floor?
Following the choreographed dances and performances, the families will open the dance floor to whoever wishes to join them. During most Sangeets, it’s inappropriate to interrupt or “crash” performances on the stage or dance floor as the performers have worked extremely hard to learn the song or dance in preparation for the celebration.
Why Should You Attend a Sangeet?
If you’ve been invited to the Sangeet, chances are you are also invited to most (if not all) of the couple’s wedding events. The Sangeet is for close family and friends and it’s the main party of the week. It sets the tone for the wedding day and creates a bond between those in attendance. You will likely make friends with those you’ll spend time with for the duration of the wedding festivities — not to mention, it’s a great way to experience the culture as you dance all night long.
