South Asian Wedding Event:
Sangeet
South Asian Wedding Vocabulary
Sangeet (alternate spellings: Sangit, Sangeeth, Sangith)
What is the Sangeet in a South Asian wedding?
This is a pre-wedding day event, often done by those following North Indian traditions. It is a night filled with music. Often with friends and family performing (some hire professionals) and a fun dance party for all.
Who has a Sangeet?
In days of old, the Sangeet was held by each side of the family. There would be a bride side Sangeet and a groom side Sangeet. Nowadays it is normal to have a Sangeet with everyone together.
When does a Sangeet happen?
This is a pre-wedding day gathering. For many unions the evenings will be: Henna, Sangeet (Music night), Wedding Day. Each day gaining more guests and more grandeur. The Sangeet takes place in the evening featuring food and fun for all.
Where does Sangeet take place?
Often the guest list includes everyone invited to the wedding the next day, so the size of the guest list dictates the location. Often it is in venue or ballroom of some sort.
How is the Sangeet managed?
Often this is the first major event with both sides of the family. The first hour may be focused on 'meet and greet'. Then perhaps a program with friends and family performing. There may be a performance by the bridesmaids, or the groom's brother and his wife. Perhaps the cousins have put together a medley. A younger child may play the violin. Or a musician may serenade the couple with his guitar. Often the finale is a performance by the bride and another by the groom. After the performances would be dinner. And the end of the event is an open dance floor with the latest (or perhaps the classic) Bollywood tunes and whatever else keeps the dance floor packed.
