In elaborate Indian weddings, among the various preparations that go on ‘behind the scenes’ to make it a memorable event, a shehnai artist or shehnai wala makes for an important part of the tradition.
The melodious sound of the shehnai is synonymous with traditional Indian weddings. It is considered auspicious and grand to have the sounds of the shehnai playing in the background. The festive and joyous atmosphere that it sets in is incomparable. Given how important this element is, it is needless to say that one has to be very careful while choosing the perfect shehnai wala. Many things come into picture before you finalise a shehnai wala for your wedding. Let us run you through the details of it.
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This is a very important point! You might have fancy ideas and images, but your budget will be the deciding factor for all of that. Your friends and family might come-up with a number of suggestions for shehnai artists in and around town. But it is you who will be deciding on the final one to choose, so personally go and meet the shehnai walas to talk about their charges. Firstly, shortlist them based on the budget. Every wedding has pre-decided budgets for each activity, functions, etc. Once the budget part is cleared, you can move on to consider the rest of the points.
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How experienced the artist and his troupe is, makes a huge difference. For a day as important as your wedding, you cannot risk hiring a newbie just because your close friend or an uncle suggested the name! So, before you go experimenting with a new ‘shehnai wala on the block’, it is always wise to check out people who are known to have a good experience and reputation. You can even check some reviews online and have a discussion with your family to make a collective decision before finalising.
A lot of shehnai walas, especially the younger ones, might be tempted to go tad modern with their music. With increasing competition, more artists are trying to edge their talents towards the latest techniques. However, there is nothing classier than having a traditional touch, especially when it comes to a wedding. So, we suggest it is best to go with someone who is rooted in the authentic Indian culture and style of playing, rather the ones who are trying new approaches. The elegance that it will give to your wedding will be unmatched.
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If you are one of those who enjoy classical Indian music thoroughly, and are well-versed with the traditional compositions and ragas or special wedding pieces, then do inform your shehnai wala well in advance. They will be happy to play your favourites. You definitely do not want something unasked-for or some filmy tunes playing in the background, while you are busy in the rituals. In case you are not well-aware of any pieces beforehand, listen to some online or get some CDs and choose what you like. Make sure that the tunes are not too slow as the guests might get bored.
Even after you have decided which shehnai wala you wish to finalise for the wedding, it is always best to take a trial session with them. This will help you know what you are getting into and whether they are worth the expense or not.
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The sounds of the shehnai add a splendid touch of richness to the air. Especially at weddings, the entire atmosphere gets festive, the merrymaking gets brighter and the colours become more vivid! With our easy tips, you can now choose the perfect shehnai artists to make your traditional Indian wedding picture perfect.
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