Dubai's Gen Z finds a unique trend in 'staged' weddings, uncovering the reasons behind their popularity
The Farzi Sangeet, a playful and judgment-free take on the traditional Indian wedding, has become a global sensation, particularly among Gen Z. This trendy event, which originated in Indian metropolitan hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, has found a particularly strong foothold in Dubai.
This mock Indian wedding-style party offers an exciting blend of wedding elements such as mehendi counters, sangeet performances, baraat, mock pheras, and lavish food, but without the actual marriage commitment. Instead, it's all about performance, celebration, and creating engaging content.
Event companies in India started hosting staged shaadis and sangeet nights, with ticket prices ranging from Rs 2,000 (Dh 83) to Rs 15,000 (Dh 627). These events have been successful in attracting a global Gen Z audience, reflecting a generation that values experiences and connections over rigid tradition.
In Dubai, the Farzi Sangeet has become a popular choice, with events like the one held at the Shangri-La Dubai's ballroom selling out. Attendees can enjoy a memorable experience that costs a fraction of what they might spend on a wedding gift.
The Farzi Sangeet allows attendees to wear their finest ethnic attire and participate in playful competition on the dance floor, with live dhol drummers, a DJ, a buffet of street food, and fun games all part of the experience. Stephie Shane, a partygoer, described the Farzi Sangeet as "pure, unadulterated fun" where they could "play pretend bride and groom squads and compete in dance-offs."
The trend of staged sangeet ceremonies has spread globally, reaching campuses and clubs in the U.S., Europe, and beyond. It offers a unique and profitable way to utilize venues during off-season months, indicating a universal desire among Gen Z for a low-pressure, high-fun cultural experience.
The Farzi Sangeet trend shows how a traditional concept can be brilliantly reimagined for a modern audience. It provides an enjoyable experience without the pressures often associated with traditional Indian weddings, making it appealing to young people who want to celebrate their heritage in a playful, performative way without the lifelong commitments tied to real weddings. In essence, the Farzi Sangeet is everything you love about a desi wedding without the things you don't.
- The Farzi Sangeet, a contemporary take on traditional Indian weddings, has gained significant popularity worldwide, especially among Generation Z.
- This innovative concept originated in Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, but has now found a robust presence in Dubai.
- Offering a blend of wedding traditions such as mehendi, sangeet performances, baraat, mock pheras, and lavish food, the Farzi Sangeet provides an interactive, celebratory experience.
- Event companies in India have capitalized on this trend, hosting staged weddings and sangeet nights with ticket prices ranging from 2,000 Indian Rupees to 15,000 Indian Rupees.
- In Dubai, the Farzi Sangeet events at venues like the Shangri-La Dubai's ballroom have become highly sought-after, offering a memorable, cost-effective alternative to wedding gifts.
- Attendees can enjoy wearing ethnic attire, participating in dance competitions, indulging in street food, and playing games, all amidst live dhol drummers and a DJ.
- The Farzi Sangeet has gained global traction, reaching universities and clubs across the U.S., Europe, and other continents, demonstrating a universal appeal among Gen Z for a low-stress, high-fun, culturally rich experience.
