Rent-a-Baraati: Transforming Weddings with Professional Cheer

In a novel development within India’s wedding industry, couples can now hire professional dancers known as ‘rent-a-baraatis’ to enliven their celebrations. This service caters to those who want to create a vibrant atmosphere, even when guest attendance falls short. Particularly popular among non-resident Indians (NRIs), this trend allows couples to infuse traditional flair into their weddings.

Couple Fatima and Aidan, originally from Turkey, have embraced this concept for their grand Indian wedding. They celebrate each anniversary in a different country, and last year, they sought a full traditional experience, including a lively baraat. “They needed both guests and baraatis, so we helped them hire about 100 people for their wedding,” said Mohsin Khan, a wedding planner based in Delhi. “The couple received stunning photos and videos from the functions.”

For some, the decision to hire baraatis stems from family expectations. Vijay, who married Shweta from Chandigarh, faced pressure from her family for a raucous baraat. “Hardly anyone in my family is confident in dancing because our weddings are usually quiet,” he shared. “I had to compromise and rent baraatis. It turned out to be quite enjoyable.”

Demand for rented baraatis varies, with clients typically requesting between 20 to 50 performers, depending on the wedding size. “Some prefer more friends dancing, while others want a mixed crowd,” Khan explained. Agencies often provide costumes to match the wedding theme, ensuring a cohesive look.

This perspective highlights the underlying debate regarding rented baraatis. While many view it as a harmless enhancement to wedding festivities, others see it as a response to societal pressures to showcase a certain image. Agencies hiring these performers conduct thorough background checks to ensure a seamless experience.

Arvind Vishwakarma, who operates a baraati rental agency in Bhopal, noted the growing demand for these services, particularly for NRI and destination weddings. “We train performers to fit the occasion, even hiring actors for specific roles like older relatives,” he said, adding that they prepare them to respond vaguely if questioned about their connection to the family.

The costs associated with renting baraatis can be significant, ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per performer, which includes outfit rental. Abhishek, a seasoned baraati from Bhopal, shared his experiences, stating, “I have danced at almost 30-35 weddings over the past few years. I enjoy the energy of every baraat.” He operates within fixed hours, typically around three hours for local weddings, with travel and accommodation covered for destination events.

Event planners like Tushar Gawande, founder of Happy Minds Events, confirm that renting baraatis is particularly advantageous for destination weddings. “Clients prefer this option to avoid the hassle of booking rooms and arranging travel for numerous guests,” he explained. “We train them based on the playlist or theme and source external manpower for special requests, especially for carnival-themed weddings.”

The trend of renting baraatis continues to grow, with agencies like Raj Events in Ambala reporting strong demand. “We conceptualize baraat themes and even have a DJ on wheels. There are also requests for international dancers, such as Russian performers,” noted Sukhraj Singh of Raj Events.

For couples like Pooja Prema, hiring baraatis became a practical solution to their celebration desires. “We wanted a grand celebration with dance and music, but our families are shy,” she said. “Hiring an agency to rent baraatis allowed us to enjoy the festivities without the pressure of getting everyone to dance.”

As the trend evolves, it reflects changing attitudes toward weddings in India, where the desire for a lively celebration often meets the realities of guest attendance. The rent-a-baraati phenomenon not only enhances wedding experiences but also sparks conversations about authenticity and societal expectations in contemporary celebrations.