A mandap, hennaed palms, bejeweled eyebrows, the Ekta Kapooresque mangtikka and sindoor. Punjabi style weddings had influenced far and beyond their own region of India. Although many regional traditions are still incorporated into their wedding day, brides all over India and here in the United States, are choosing the elaborate and festive influences of Punjabi traditions to give their weddings a party atmosphere.

“Today’s weddings are becoming totally cosmopolitan in terms of customs and costumes. And while other traditional weddings are high on emotional and pain quotient, Punjabi celebrations are all about upping the pleasure quotient. No wonder we’re all getting married, Punjabi style,” note Santosh Desai, a social commentator.

The vibrancy and exuberance of Punjabi culture has permeated into weddings far and wide. And there is no wonder brides are drawn to this style. Known for having the most elaborate food, playing the loudest music, dancing the most and incorporating the brightest colors, every bride is looking to incorporate these multi-dimensions into her wedding celebrations!

So here are 6 fantastic fusion examples to Punjabified your wedding!

Baraat

The Baraat is a large gathering of family, friends, and relatives. The Baraat is the arrival of the groom on the day of the wedding at the wedding venue. Historically, he arrives by decorated horse. Modern grooms now travel in extravagant ways, I have seen helicopters, boats, elephants, and luxury cars.

The groom’s family members, relatives, and friends accompany him to the wedding venue in large procession. Groom’s friends and relatives are called the barati. They are welcomed and received by the bride’s family. The bride’s parents and elder members of the family welcome the groom. The mother of the bride performs the aarti when the groom enters the house. And the other member of the bride’s family welcomes the guests from the groom’s side and introduces each other. This introduction is known as the milni ceremony. The barat procession may consist of many people, both men and women. In earlier times married women were not allowed to go but now all female relatives go and even dance in the procession.

The barati who comes in the procession are adored with flower …

(Information above from one of my favorite South Asian resources, Maharani Weddings)

Dhol

Drummer’s Delight, Aman Chohan

Gujarati pantars vs Lehenga

Gujarati bridal saree isthe Panetar [white sari with a red bandhini border.

VS.

Punjabi traditional bridal wear is lehenga cholis but Punjabi bridal and wedding wear can also be as sarees and lehnga cholis with heavy embroidery or stonework or sequence work or zari.

(images from Pramanik)

Kaleere (pieces of jewelry tied to the bangles of a Punjabi bride)

(Maharani Weddings)

(Image from Mangi Lal)

Duppatta

(Insta-blogs)

Traditional Bengali alta vs Maumbai Mehndiwali

VS

Aaena-e-Dil

As you know, we are always about cultural fusion here at Full Circle Eventi! This is just another perfect example of fusion of regional cultural rituals and tradition. I’d love to hear what blended traditions you are using in your wedding week festivities!