The definition of a Sangeet, taken from the Neetu + Neil’s website is stated as follows, “The Sangeet is a hugely popular wedding event and could even last for multiple days! This ceremony, which customarily took place at the bride’s home with relatives and friends playing the ‘dholki’ and singing ’suhaag’, which are traditional folk songs about marriage. Songs include ‘jokes’ about the in-laws and husband to-be, ‘tips’ on a successful marriage and some sad songs about the bride leaving her parents home. In modern India, men and women partake in the Sangeet with both sides of the wedding party increasingly coming together to celebrate. Hindu weddings are designed to be the union of two families, not just two individuals, and the Sangeet ceremony is the ‘ice-breaker’ between the bride and groom’s sides.”

Had I not read the description beforehand, I would have thought I left the Ritz Carlton and entered a huge dance party at a Bazaar. The family set up colorful booths filled with fabric, jewelry, goblets, vases, and tons of food all for the taking. Layla and her Lotus Dancers preformed and the band pumped out great music throughout the night. As much as I enjoy myself at all these events, it was one of the few moments where I really wish I could have dropped my camera and danced the night away.