Holi, the festival of colors, and Indian weddings share something truly special—they’re both celebrations of love, community, and tradition. Yet, as times change, these age-old customs are being
reimagined in modern ways. While evolution is natural, it’s important to pause and reflect on the roots of these traditions, ensuring they remain meaningful and respectful.
As a live Shehnai player, I’ve always found a deep connection between the soulful music I play at Indian weddings and the essence of festivals like Holi. Both are vibrant, joyous occasions steeped in cultural significance, and they deserve to be celebrated with authenticity and heart.
The Heart of Holi: A Celebration of Goodness and Renewal
Holi isn’t just about colors and revelry—it’s a festival with profound spiritual roots. It celebrates the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the story of Prahlad and Holika. The bonfire of Holika Dahan, lit on the eve of Holi, represents the burning away of negativity and embracing positivity.
Holi is also about love and playfulness, inspired by the tales of Lord Krishna and Radha. The vibrant colors we throw today are a nod to Krishna’s playful spirit, symbolizing joy, equality, and togetherness.
But as Holi has become more global, it’s easy to see how its essence can sometimes get lost. The festival, once a sacred and joyful celebration, is now often associated with parties, drinking, and behavior that feels far removed from its roots. While modernization is inevitable, it’s worth asking: how can we celebrate Holi in a way that honors its heritage?
Indian Weddings: A Parallel Celebration of Tradition
Much like Holi, Indian weddings are rich with rituals and symbolism. From the sacred pheras around the fire to the entrance of the bride and groom, every element is rooted in tradition. And just like Holi, weddings too are evolving—modern couples are blending traditional ceremonies with contemporary touches to make their big day uniquely theirs.
As a Shehnai player, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this balance firsthand. The Shehnai, a traditional Indian wind instrument, has been a part of wedding ceremonies for centuries. Its soulful melodies set the tone for rituals, creating an emotional and spiritual connection for everyone present. Yet, I’ve also embraced modernity, collaborating with other musicians and creating custom tracks to bring a fresh, romantic feel to my performances.
This balance of old and new is what makes Indian weddings so magical. But just like Holi, it’s important to ensure that the essence of the tradition isn’t overshadowed by modern trends.
Celebrating with Authenticity: Tips for Holi and Weddings
If you’re looking to celebrate Holi or plan an Indian wedding while staying true to tradition, here are a few ideas to keep in mind:
For Holi:
1. Start with Holika Dahan—gather with loved ones to light a bonfire and reflect on the festival’s deeper meaning.
2. Embrace the spirit of togetherness and forgiveness. Holi is a time to mend relationships and celebrate unity.
3. Celebrate responsibly—keep the focus on joy, music, and colors, rather than indulgence that veers away from the festival’s roots.
For Weddings:
1. Incorporate live music, like the Shehnai, to add a traditional and soulful touch to your ceremony.
2. Honor key rituals and involve family members to create a meaningful experience.
3. Blend modern elements thoughtfully—whether it’s a fusion playlist or custom tracks, let them complement the tradition, not replace it.
The Role of Music in Preserving Tradition
Music has always been a powerful way to connect people to their roots. Whether it’s the Shehnai at a wedding or devotional songs during Holi, it sets the tone for the celebration and brings the tradition to life. For me, playing the Shehnai is not just about creating beautiful melodies—it’s about honoring the culture and emotions behind every note.
Conclusion: Celebrating with Intention
At the end of the day, both Holi and Indian weddings are about love, connection, and joy. By celebrating with intention and respect for their origins, we can ensure these traditions remain meaningful for
generations to come. Whether it’s through soulful Shehnai music, vibrant colors, or sacred rituals, let’s honor the heart of these celebrations while embracing the beauty of their evolution.