South Asian Wedding Events for Grooms:
Baraath
South Asian Wedding Vocabulary
Baraath (alternate spellings: Baraat, Barath, Barat, Barath)
What is the Baraath in a South Asian wedding?
This is an outdoor groom’s procession that takes place immediately before the marriage ceremony for many South Asian regions. Example: Punjabi and Gujarati grooms have a baraath. South Indian grooms do not. (If we are following tradition)
Who has a Baraath?
The groom is the highlight of the baraath.
Traditionally there is a grand parade / procession of groom's side guests with music and dancing, and the groom as the grand finale arriving in style on perhaps a horse, fancy car, elephant or other vehicle. Even on foot if he prefers. The bride's side waits by the front door to greet the groom's side and welcome them to the event.
In more modern weddings, often times 'all guests' are invited to join the groom's entourage and celebrate his arrival.
Traditionally there is a grand parade / procession of groom's side guests with music and dancing, and the groom as the grand finale arriving in style on perhaps a horse, fancy car, elephant or other vehicle. Even on foot if he prefers. The bride's side waits by the front door to greet the groom's side and welcome them to the event.
In more modern weddings, often times 'all guests' are invited to join the groom's entourage and celebrate his arrival.
When does a Baraath happen?
The baraath (groom's procession) happens on the wedding day itself. Immediately preceding the marriage rituals.
Where does Baraath take place?
The baraath (groom's procession) is typically outside. This allows for the revelry and crowd. It also allows the groom to arrive in style on his horse or car.
How is the Baraath managed?
If working with a DJ familiar with South Asian weddings, the DJ team will have a designated 'mobile baraath' vehicle equiped with speakers and a microphone so they can make any announcements and turn up the music. They can provide a dhol player to add a live music element and a touch of tradition.
The DJ vehicle leads the way, followed by the crowd, followed by the groom as the finale.
The groom may choose to dismount from the horse or car and join his entourage in dancing before being greeted by the bride's parents, VIPs, and guests at the end.
After the greeting is completed, everyone goes to the ceremony space for the marriage rituals.
The DJ vehicle leads the way, followed by the crowd, followed by the groom as the finale.
The groom may choose to dismount from the horse or car and join his entourage in dancing before being greeted by the bride's parents, VIPs, and guests at the end.
After the greeting is completed, everyone goes to the ceremony space for the marriage rituals.
