Films That Invite You To The Grand Spectacle Of An Indian Wedding

If there’s one thing India totally nails, it’s weddings. The Big Fat Indian Wedding is the family event of a lifetime, and our Insta feeds are proof of just how magical and wild these celebrations get. It’s all about the jaw-dropping locations, killer decor, and next-level design, with Bollywood leading the charge on what’s hot. Ready for some major inspiration? Check out these five films that’ll give you all the wedding vibes, from stunning setups to iconic lines.

Band Baaja Baaraat (2010)

Maneesh Sharma’s Band Baaja Baaraat, with production design by T.P. Abid, is a masterclass in showcasing the opulence and charm of Indian weddings. This film dives into the world of wedding planning, featuring stunning venues like Delhi’s Chhatarpur Farms, which are transformed with lush floral arrangements, chandeliers, and ornate furniture. The mandaps, draped in rich fabrics and decked out with flowers and lights, are central to the wedding scenes, adding to the extravagance. The production design bursts with vibrant colours and intricate details, from marigold garlands and traditional lanterns to rangoli patterns and brass utensils. It perfectly captures the spectrum of Indian weddings, from grand spectacles to intimate ceremonies, reflecting their colourful, kitschy, and sometimes chaotic nature.

Shaandaar (2015)

Shaandaar, directed by Vikas Bahl and starring Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, is a feast for the eyes with its luxurious wedding decor and opulent production design. Set against the backdrop of a grand London wedding, the film explores the dynamics between two families trying to uphold their legacies. Production designer Amrita Mahal created stunning sets that capture the essence of high-society celebrations. The design merges structural elements like steel, bamboo, and wood with decorative touches such as hand-woven fabrics, lush floral arrangements, and flickering candles. Each material adds to the film’s sophisticated yet playful vibe, making every scene a visual delight.

Veere Di Wedding (2018)

Veere Di Wedding, starring Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar, and Shikha Talsania, transforms Indian wedding decor into a pastel paradise with vibrant accents. Directed by Rhea Kapoor, with Priya Ahluwalia as production designer and Achala Mirza as set decorator, the film blends traditional and modern aesthetics to create a fresh take on wedding design. The wedding scenes are awash in soft pastel and ivory tones, perfectly complementing the characters’ colourful outfits and creating a dreamy, romantic vibe. Floral arrangements play a crucial role, featuring delicate strings of white flowers and bold pink roses. A standout element is the “phoolon ki chadar,” a traditional floral canopy under which Kareena Kapoor’s character walks, symbolizing the strong bond and support of her friends.

Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (2018)

In Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, the wedding scenes burst with vibrant energy and colourful Indian wedding aesthetics, thanks to the work of production designers Sukant Panigrahy and Dipankar Dasgupta. The decor dazzles with a rich palette of bright yellows, pinks, and blues, highlighted by intricate floral arrangements of marigolds and roses, adding a kitschy and festive flair. Ornate mandaps, draped in colourful fabrics and sparkling fairy lights, set a celebratory tone, while traditional touches like low sofas and colourful cushions enhance the cultural vibe. From the lively baarat backdrop to the playful haldi ceremony, every detail reflects the film’s comedic and romantic spirit, creating an immersive and visually engaging wedding experience.

Monsoon Wedding (2001)

In Mira Nair’s Monsoon Wedding, production designer Stephanie Caroll transforms the Verma family’s home into a vibrant celebration of wedding joy. Caroll uses bold yellows, oranges, and reds to fill the spaces with the energy and chaos of the nuptial preparations. Arched doorways and intricately patterned tile work ground the setting in authenticity, adding rich visual texture. The monsoon season becomes a key element, with lush greenery and abundant floral arrangements enriching the backdrop. Playful, colourful umbrellas also make frequent appearances, adding a whimsical touch and enhancing the festive atmosphere of the wedding scenes.