Mehndi
A Mehendi ceremony is an Indian wedding ritual that typically happens one or two days before the wedding. In a typical Mehendi ceremony, all of the women in the bride and groom's families, along with close friends, gather together while the bride has elaborate henna designs applied to her hands and feet.
SANGEET
The Sangeet is a great opportunity for both sides of the family to meet and celebrate the union of the bride and groom for the first time. The word "Sangeet" means music in Hindi. Using the word 'sangeet' to describe a celebratory event such as a wedding, translates to music night.
It's an evening filled with dancing, singing, and even performances, by the family or hired professionals. In celebration of the bride and groom, the two families bond with each other and begin the start of one big family.
This can be the most joyous and relaxed event - spreading joy and happiness amongst the families.
memorable moments
Sangeet is about family,
don't lose sight of that.
Enjoy dancing and singing.
This is the best time
for family performances
and sweet cute family speeches
need to know
It is an Indian tradition,
not as common in
West Indian Weddings
Some brides choose to hire Henna artists' to the Sangeet for guests.
It's a good way to combine
events and save money.
DETAILS OF A SANGEET
Where: Bride's home or venue
When: 2 or 3 days before the wedding ceremony
This essentially is a little pre-party before the wedding where the bride and groom invite close friends, relatives, and family. The bride and groom, dressed in Indian wear, is the focal point for the evening.
In modern times, the Sangeet night happens after Mehendi, where the bride can show off her bridal henna. Some sangeet nights are planned with, but not limited to, live singing, dance performances, family skits, food, and beverages for the guest.
modern trend
Close family and friends plan dance performances that mimic Bollywood montages (Example: the Medley song
from Mujhse Dosti Karoge)
what to wear
This event is very colorful and festive
choose colorful Indian wear (if possible)
Avoid dark colors – Absolutely no black or white (it represents death and mourning)
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
In earlier times, sangeet would last for a few days. Traditionally arranged for the bride by her family, female guest were invited to the Sangeet to celebrate the bride. Dancing, singing, telling jokes, and talking of fond memories of the bride. This was a celebration that unwinded the stress of preparing.
As time evolved, arranged marriages were the most common type of wedding in Indian culture.
Therefore, families were estranged. Sangeets, planned by the bride's family, was used to introduce the families and friends of the bride and groom for the first time. It was still common for Sangeet to last a few days, as guests from afar arrived for the wedding festivities.
This tradition was adapted in West Indian cultures when our ancestors migrated from India, many generations ago. It is more common for marriages to occur based on two people loving each other instead of their parents' arranging it for them.
Many couples date for a period of time, whilst engaging and being apart of important family events. Thus allowing many couples to opt. out of having a Sangeet night, spending time and effort planning other wedding events. Although Sangeet nights may be fun and thrilling, choosing not to have one, sometimes makes the biggest difference in your budget.
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