Still quite the bangers

Express Tribune

29-01-2025

KARACHI:
Every wedding season brings with it the latest chartbusters, setting dance floors alight. Yet, as we grow older, it's hard to leave behind the songs that defined our adolescent years. Nostalgia keeps them alive, ensuring they make frequent comebacks at wedding celebrations. Here's a selection of timeless wedding anthems from the 2000s that continue to be crowd favorites.
Mehndi Hai Rachne Wali (2000)
A quintessential mehndi classic, this song from Zubeidaa isn't necessarily the go-to choice for choreographed sangeet performances, but it remains a staple at henna celebrations. With its rhythmic beats and traditional charm, it's a track that tempts everyone to clap along.
Bole Chudiyan (2001)
No wedding playlist is complete without a song from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.... While the film boasts several memorable tracks, this is the one you'll hear every wedding season. Whether or not you plan to dance to it, this song is nearly impossible to escape.
Mehndi Ki Yeh Raat (2003)
A perfect addition to an intimate dholki night, this track by Jawad Ahmad is ideal for gatherings filled with mithai and marigolds. Unlike many wedding songs, it isn't tied to either the bride's or the groom's side, making it a unifying melody for the celebration.
Maahi Ve (2003)
With weeks of wedding festivities, an upbeat anthem is essential to keep the energy high. This Kal Ho Naa Ho song ensures that family members - young and old - find their way to the dance floor.
Tumse Milke Dilka Jo Haal (2004)
When it comes to Bollywood's king of romance, Shah Rukh Khan, the hits extend beyond love ballads to wedding anthems. This track from Main Hoon Na is a testament to his influence, frequently appearing in wedding dance routines.
Tenu Leke (2007)
A perfect choice for the larke waale making their grand entrance, this Salaame Ishq song's bold declaration of love and celebration makes it an easy pick for an impromptu bhangra performance.
Teri Ore (2008)
Weddings aren't just about high-energy dance tracks - romantic melodies set the tone for heartfelt moments. This song from Singh is Kinng remains a go-to for couples looking to slow down and savor the magic of their big day.
Twist (2009)
For those seeking a high-energy throwback to set the dance floor on fire, this Love Aaj Kal track is unstoppable. It continues to be a top choice for choreographed wedding performances.
Nagada Sang Dhol (2013)
For those wanting to add a fast-paced traditional twist to their wedding festivities, this track from Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela is a must. Grab some dandiyas and a group of enthusiastic dancers, and you'll be the highlight of the night.
Punjabi Wedding Song (2014)
No wedding playlist is complete without a song that allows for effortless, carefree dancing. Whether or not you're a seasoned performer, this track from Hasee Toh Phasee guarantees a fun-filled dance session with family and friends.
Shakar Wandaan Re (2015)
Since its release, this song has been a staple for group performances. Whether it's friends or siblings hitting the dance floor, its easy-to-follow choreography makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. After the Ho Mann Jahaan cast recently revived this song at Sheheryar's wedding, it only makes sense for you to do the same.
Afreen Afreen (2016)
Between the endless wedding events, moments of downtime are inevitable. Revived by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Momina Mustehsan for Coke Studio, this song is perfect for mellow jam sessions with cousins and friends, its soothing melody making it an effortless favorite.
Mere Rashke Qamar (2017)
Qawwali nights remain an integral part of wedding culture, and this track is a staple for those intimate musical evenings. A mesmerizing melody, this Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan track adds a soulful touch to any wedding gathering.
Dilbaro (2018)
The larki waale always find it hard to say goodbye to the bride, and this song perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet emotions of rukhsati. While it may bring tears, this track from Raazi also signifies the start of a beautiful new journey.
Haye Dil Bechara (2019)
After the exhaustion of endless dance performances and emotional goodbyes, the wedding reception calls for an uplifting note. This Parey Hut Love track, with its soft yet groovy beats, serves as the perfect ending to the festivities.