Indian weddings are globally admired for their opulence, colorful traditions, and rich cultural displays. Known for their grandeur and vibrant ethnic attire, these celebrations often captivate onlookers—especially after the much-talked-about Ambani wedding festivities, which drew international attention, including from the Kardashian clan. The extravagant nature of Indian weddings has since inspired many to dream of receiving an invite to such an event. Recently, New York City residents had the rare chance to witness the joyous chaos of an Indian wedding procession—commonly known as a “baraat”—as 400 people took over the city’s iconic Wall Street, adorned in outfits by Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee.
The unique moment unfolded when a large group of Indian wedding guests paraded through Wall Street, a symbol of global finance, in a celebratory mood, creating a fusion of traditional Indian culture and a distinctly modern urban backdrop. A video capturing the event quickly went viral, showing the massive group dancing their way to the bride’s location. The groom, dressed in a classic ivory sherwani, led the procession. The atmosphere was electric, amplified by a DJ who blended upbeat Bollywood tracks with popular Western pop music, creating a cross-cultural celebration that brought the bustling street to a complete standstill.
Amid the dancing crowd, the bride made a striking entrance dressed in a signature red lehenga by Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Her look was completed with party makeup that highlighted her features, turning heads as she joined in the dance with friends and family. The ladies in attendance expressed their joy through unrestrained dancing, while others captured the vibrant moments on their phones. The DJ, clearly proud of the occasion, shared a clip on social media with the caption:
“We shut down Wall Street for a 400-person baraat – who would’ve ever thought? Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime kind of magic.”
Among the attendees was Instagram influencer and Gujarati actor Devarshi Shah, who shared his experience online. In his footage, the groom could be seen dancing enthusiastically, supported on the shoulders of one of his American groomsmen. The groomsmen themselves embraced Indian tradition, dressed in coordinated pink and white ethnic outfits, symbolizing a beautiful blend of cultures at play.
The footage sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Many users were impressed, expressing awe at the wealth and bold celebration style of Indian families abroad. One user wrote, “Indians have all the money anywhere and everywhere. Loving this.” Another added, “The first NRIs with real style AND swag- Waaah!” However, not everyone was impressed. A third commenter remarked, “For god sake, NRIs can’t even do basic baraat dance!”
Some responses also reflected deeper societal concerns. One user commented, “Yes true. All this flaunting wealth and lifestyle when the average American citizen is trying to make a living is bound to make an impact. That explains why immigrants were a stepping stone for Trump and he’s using it to stamp Indians down (lived in USA and still have family there. We chose to keep a low profile. Some don’t seem to get it).” These remarks reflect the wider debates around visibility, identity, and wealth display among the Indian diaspora.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, a baraat is a central and beloved ritual in many North Indian, especially Sanatani or Hindu, weddings. It is the groom’s ceremonial wedding procession, which includes close family members and friends dancing and celebrating as they escort the groom—traditionally on a horse—to the wedding venue where the bride awaits. The baraat is not just about movement; it’s a festive journey filled with music, dancing, and cultural rituals.
Before the groom mounts the horse, his sister traditionally feeds the animal a meal of lentils and chickpeas, a symbolic act of care and goodwill. Additionally, the groom’s sisters-in-law, or bhabhis, apply a “kaalateeka” or black dot on the nape of his neck, a gesture believed to protect him from the malevolent gaze or ‘evil eye’ during this important life event.
The grandeur of this particular baraat that took over Wall Street served as both a cultural statement and a celebration of identity. For many, it was a stunning example of how traditional Indian customs are finding expression in global cities and public spaces. The event not only captivated the attendees but also passersby who watched the spectacle unfold in one of the world’s most famous financial hubs.
It was a rare moment when New York’s buttoned-up business district became the stage for an exuberant expression of Indian culture. Onlookers paused, not for a stock ticker or trading update, but to witness a real-life cultural pageant filled with music, dance, and joyous community spirit. The merging of Wall Street’s formality with the uninhibited joy of a baraat created a memorable juxtaposition that few who witnessed it are likely to forget.
As the video continues to garner attention online, reactions remainmixed—ranging from admiration for the bold display of heritage to critiques rooted in the politics of wealth and migration. Still, the consensus for many was clear: it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment, a vivid example of how traditions travel, evolve, and thrive in new environments.
With this event, Indian weddings once again reaffirmed their global reputation—not just for their extravagance, but for their ability to merge cultural richness with modern celebration. Whether met with awe or critique, the Wall Street baraat succeeded in bringing Indian festivity to the heart of New York in an unforgettable way.
So, what are your thoughts on the majestic Indian baraat that momentarily brought one of the world’s busiest financial centers to a halt?