What is a Baraat and Do You Need a DJ
By DJ Justin Warwick from DJ Enterprises Mobile Disc Jockey & Photo Booth
A Baraat is a traditional Indian wedding procession or “parade” that takes place before the wedding ceremony. The groom, along with his family and friends, travel to the wedding venue on horseback, in a decorated car. Or in some cases, on an elephant or a luxury car.
The groom typically wears a traditional wedding attire and is accompanied by his friends and family, who dance to lively music and celebrate his arrival. The groom’s family members also carry decorative items such as umbrellas, swords or flower garlands during the procession.
Let’s get this party started!
The Baraat is often considered one of the most important and exciting events in an Indian wedding. It is a symbol of the groom’s journey from his home to his bride’s home, where the wedding ceremony will take place. The bride’s family members welcome the Baraat. Greeting the groom and his family with flowers and traditional ceremonies, marking the beginning of the wedding festivities. And a side note, I just LOVE being the DJ for a Baraat. I look forward to them from the moment I’m booked for it. I wish I could have talked my family into it! Heck, I think this would be an awesome Western tradition to start.
The Baraat procession can vary depending on the region, religion, and customs of the families involved in the wedding. However, regardless of the specific customs and traditions, the Baraat is a joyous and celebratory event that is an integral part of an Indian wedding.
Evolution of the Baraat
In modern times, the role of the DJ has become increasingly important in the Baraat procession. The DJ is responsible for playing the music and creating a festive atmosphere for the groom and his entourage as they make their way to the wedding venue.
The DJ often plays traditional Indian wedding music, such as Bhangra, Dhol and Bollywood music. Even a little Hip-hop is possible, which gets everyone dancing and celebrating. In addition, the DJ can also provide portable sound equipment and microphones for announcements or speeches during the Baraat procession. Just to give you a visual, the “mobile sound system” I bring to a Baraat is a custom built cart housing a 2,000-watt speaker, subwoofer combination. It’s all beautifully covered and adorned in Gold silk draping and tapestry.
The DJ may also coordinate with the wedding planner or event coordinator to ensure that the Baraat procession runs smoothly. And that the music and entertainment are appropriate for the event. They will also work with the groom and his family to create a playlist of their favorite songs to be played during the procession.
In recent years I have seen many changes with the tradition of the Baraat. At more than a few multicultural, mixed, Indian-Western weddings where the bride’s family was included for example.
Overall, the DJ plays a significant role in the Baraat procession by providing the music and entertainment that sets the tone for the wedding festivities. And helps to create an unforgettable experience for the groom and his loved ones.