Montcalm Hotel London Sangeet Pre Wedding Photography
A colourful Sikh Sangeet at the Montcalm Hotel in London
Following a romantic civil wedding ceremony at The Dairy in Waddesdon Manor, Mandev and Sasha's Sikh pre wedding Sangeet was held at the luxurious Montcalm Hotel in Marble Arch, central London to kick of their Sikh Wedding events.
The event was put together perfectly by Karishma Manwani who is one of the most incredible luxury wedding planners out there and there were so many details for guests to take in and enjoy. Food stations from around the world, a Mehndi corner colourful decorations transformed this London Hotel into something magical and the whole evening was filled with fun and laughter. The highlight of the evening was definitely the family dance performances and these were followed by lots of dancing and performances from the Dhol players.
Entertainment was provided by the world class Kudos and videography from David Garcia at Zenith Cinematography.
Here are a few images from this Montcalm Hotel Sangeet event in London's Marble Arch.
Sangeet Wedding Photography by Nick Rose Photography
Venue: The Montcalm Hotel London, Marble Arch, London, W1H 7TN
Wedding Planning by: Karishma Manwani at We Me In
Videography by David Garcia at Zenith Cinematography
Second Photographer: Sarah Pipkin
Entertainment by Kudos
Sikh Sangeet: A Joyous Prelude to a Sikh Wedding
The Sikh Sangeet is a celebration like no other—a lively, music-filled gathering that sets the tone for the wedding festivities. This pre-wedding event is not just about dancing and singing; it's a heartfelt occasion where families come together, bonds are strengthened, and blessings are showered upon the couple.
While Sikhism as a faith emphasizes simplicity and humility, the Sangeet offers a vibrant and joyous counterpoint, reflecting the pure happiness that comes with the union of two souls.
What Happens at a Sikh Sangeet?
Music and Dance: The Heart of the Celebration
At the core of any Sangeet is the music. Traditional Punjabi folk songs and instruments create an infectious rhythm that compels everyone to get on their feet. Popular choices include:
Bhangra: The energetic dance form that’s synonymous with Punjabi culture.
Gidda: A vibrant women-led dance filled with traditional storytelling.
Boliyan and Tappay: Playful, humorous lyrics that add a touch of cheeky fun to the night.
Guests often take centre stage, with group dances and impromptu performances lighting up the atmosphere. Whether it’s the bride’s siblings rehearsing a coordinated routine or the groom’s friends pulling off hilarious skits, everyone plays a part in the revelry.
A Family Affair
The Sangeet isn’t just about the couple—it’s a celebration of two families coming together. Grandparents, uncles, aunts, and even young children join in the fun, showcasing their own talents.
Generational Performances: Elders sing traditional folk songs or share heartfelt blessings, while younger family members bring modern flair to the evening.
Shared Traditions: It’s a chance for both families to highlight their unique customs and create a beautiful blend of traditions.
Blessings for the Couple
Amidst the music and dancing, the Sangeet holds a deeper purpose. It’s a time for elders and loved ones to share blessings, good wishes, and advice for the couple’s future. These moments of reflection balance out the vibrant festivities with a sense of meaning and love.
Feasting and Festivities
No celebration is complete without food, and a Sikh Sangeet delivers in abundance. Think of tables laden with:
Samosas, pakoras, and chaats to kick things off.
Rich, aromatic curries and fragrant rice dishes.
Decadent Punjabi sweets like gulab jamun and jalebi for dessert.
The delicious food fuels the energy of the evening, keeping everyone going well into the night.
The Role of the Sangeet in a Sikh Wedding
The Sangeet is more than just a prelude—it’s an integral part of the Sikh wedding experience. It allows everyone to relax, unwind, and celebrate before the formalities of the religious ceremony.
For the couple, it’s an opportunity to connect with their loved ones, shake off any pre-wedding nerves, and truly immerse themselves in the joy of the moment.
Modern Twists on a Traditional Event
While tradition is deeply respected, modern Sangeet celebrations have evolved to include contemporary elements:
Fusion Performances: Traditional bhangra mixed with Bollywood or even Western dance styles.
Themed Décor: From glamorous fairy lights to chic, minimalist setups, modern Sangeets often come with curated aesthetics.
Custom Playlists: Couples may choose to include popular hits alongside traditional songs, making the night uniquely theirs.
Yet, despite these updates, the heart of the Sangeet remains the same: family, joy, and togetherness.
Why the Sangeet Matters
The Sikh Sangeet isn’t just an event—it’s a memory in the making. It’s a moment where laughter echoes, generations unite, and love takes centre stage. This cherished tradition embodies the vibrant spirit of Sikhism and creates a lasting sense of community, joy, and warmth for everyone involved.
