At Pakistani weddings, dhol players are typically needed for the groom's arrival. They can start outside as the groom and his family arrive, then play them into the hall until the groom is seated at the head stage. It is an end to end baraat, or groom's procession.
Key takeaways
- The groom's arrival is the main moment for dhol at a Pakistani wedding.
- Dhol players can play from outside the venue all the way to the head stage.
- Plan the route and timings with your venue before you book.
When are dhol players used at a Pakistani wedding?
The groom's arrival is typically when dhol players are required. Rather than a short entrance, the team plays for the whole procession, so the arrival feels like an event in itself.
What does the procession look like?
The dhol players can start outside as the groom and his family arrive. They then play the groom and his family into the hall, and keep playing until the groom has been seated at the head stage.
That makes it an end to end baraat or groom's procession, from the car park or entrance to the stage.
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How do you plan the route and timings?
Walk the route in your head: where the groom arrives, which doors you use, how long the walk is and where the head stage is. Share this with us so the team plans the pace and the number of players.
- Where does the groom and his family arrive?
- How far is it from the entrance to the head stage?
- Is dhol allowed outside, in the foyer and in the hall?
- How many players does the venue allow?
What venue rules should you check?
Some venues limit the number of dhol players, how long they can play and what time a baraat can start. Check these with your venue, caterer or wedding planner before you book.
Can you add more to the procession?
Many families add a horse or a band baja for the arrival. Ask us about the options and the timings.
Frequently asked questions
When are dhol players used at a Pakistani wedding?
Typically for the groom's arrival. They can start outside as the groom and his family arrive and play them into the hall until the groom is seated at the head stage.
What is an end to end groom's procession?
A procession where the dhol players play the groom and his family from outside the venue all the way to the head stage, rather than only at the doors.
How many dhol players do I need for a groom's arrival?
It depends on the route and the venue. Two cover most arrivals, and families often book three or four for a long procession, subject to venue limits.
Can the dhol players start outside the venue?
Usually yes, but confirm with your venue first because some have rules about outdoor noise, timings and numbers.
Plan the groom's arrival with us
Send your venue, date and route and we plan the procession.
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