Baraat

Procession details

The groom leads a group of relatives and friends toward the marriage location. Historically, participants rode horses, elephants, or chariots. Modern processions often use vintage cars. The group moves with energy, accompanied by musicians playing drums like the dhol. Dancers celebrate along the route while the groom remains seated. He typically wears fine clothing and carries a ceremonial sword. The accompanying crowd, known as baraatis, provides the entertainment and noise for the journey.

Regional variations

Different regions adapt the procession to local customs. In Punjab, men wear turbans and the group performs the milni greeting. Gujarati families call it Varghodo and include playful interactions with the mother-in-law. Tamil couples use Janavasam with decorated vehicles. Bengali traditions feature Borjatri with conch shell greetings. Dogra processions include specific rituals like Sehrabandhi and Dev Karaj temple visits. Each variation reflects local cultural identity while maintaining the core concept of a groom's journey.

Arrival and welcome

Upon reaching the venue, the bride's family greets the groom. They perform welcoming ceremonies involving tilak, aarti, and garlands. Sweets and drinks are offered to the arriving party. In some traditions, the mother-in-law applies kajal or touches the groom's feet. Fireworks often mark the conclusion of the journey. The meeting point allows elders from both sides to exchange gifts and formalize the connection between the families before the religious rites begin.

How Baraat is kept

The groom dresses in formal attire and mounts a horse or enters a vehicle. His male relatives and friends join him, forming a large group. Musicians play rhythmic beats while dancers move alongside the procession. The group travels through streets to the wedding hall. Upon arrival, the bride's family performs welcoming rituals. They apply tilak, wave lamps, and offer sweets. The groom may carry a sword throughout the journey. The baraatis dance and sing during the travel phase.

When and where

It occurs on the wedding day, usually before the main ceremony begins. The timing depends on when the groom departs from his home. The procession concludes just before the couple exchanges vows at the mandap.

This custom is widespread across the Indian subcontinent. It is most prominent in India and Nepal. Specific regional styles exist in Punjab, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan. Urban areas may see modified versions using cars instead of animals.

What Baraat means

The procession symbolizes the groom's readiness to take on marital responsibilities. The loud music and dancing represent community celebration and support. The journey itself signifies leaving one's family of origin to join another. The sword represents protection and honor. Welcoming rituals acknowledge the respect owed to the incoming groom.

Who takes part

• The groom: Leads the procession and rides a horse or sits in a car
• The baraatis: Dance, sing, and provide musical accompaniment
• Musicians: Play drums and wind instruments to set the rhythm
• The bride's mother: Greets the groom with aarti and sweets
• Relatives: Accompany the groom and participate in the milni greeting

If you are a guest

Guests from the groom's side join the procession and dance. Guests from the bride's side wait at the venue to greet the arriving party. They may offer sweets and participate in the initial meetings between family elders.

Then and now

Animal welfare concerns have changed some practices. Campaigns against using horses due to cruelty have reduced their use. Many families now opt for cars or palanquins. Some communities have shortened the procession length. The tradition remains popular but adapts to modern ethical standards.

On the wedding table

• Sweets: Offered to the groom and his party upon arrival at the venue
• Curd mixed with honey: Served to the groom in Odia traditions
• Suchi: A Dogra dish served to the groom after he is welcomed

Symbols: Horse and carriage Swords and daggers Garlands and flowers

Questions people ask about Baraat

See also

OppanaA circle dance and song tradition of the Mappila Muslim community in Kerala weddingsUlulationA high-pitched trilling sound made by women to celebrate weddings and share good news across many cultures.BhangraA vigorous Punjabi folk dance performed to the beat of a dhol drum during harvest celebrations.MadisarThe nine-yard sari drape worn by Tamil Brahmin women during weddings and religious rites.

Good reading and sources

• Dalit groom attacked for riding a horseThe Hindu, Article
• If horses had wishes…The Indian Express, Article
• Dalit groom attacked for riding a horseThe Hindu, Article
• If horses had wishes…The Indian Express, Article

• Baraat on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.