January 31, 2025
DHAKA – The 90s were epic. The music, the fashion, the vibe. How, then, could the weddings of the golden era be any different? Unmarred by the pressure to dazzle and outdo, the 90s Bengali weddings were a delightful blend of simplicity and warmth, where family and community came together in celebration and the creation of timeless memories.
One may not miss the video technology of the era — the grainy footage peppered with amusing animations such as flowers blooming to reveal the bride’s face or the couple riding a ponkhiraj (mythical flying horse). Yet, no one can deny that there was some innocence behind the cheesy, quirky, almost endearing simulations, especially in comparison to the perfectly polished videography; the touched and retouched photos of the modern day.
Music was a highlight, with a mix of 90s Bollywood hits and evergreen Bengali classics playing on tape recorders or early DJ setups. The dances were heartfelt, spontaneous expressions of joy, performed without the guidance of professional choreographers. The laughter and missed steps that inevitably followed became part of the authenticity and charm of the event.
Decor was another story of simplicity and sincerity. Unlike today’s extravagant floral walls and artificial installations, real marigold and tuberose garlands adorned the considerably smaller venues, filling the air with sweet fragrance. Although without too much variation or a lot of attention to detail, these decorations had a raw beauty to them and were often assembled with the help of neighbours and family members.
The gatherings themselves were smaller and more intimate, allowing for genuine conversations and thorough planning. Everyone pitched in — neighbours helped with cooking, relatives went shopping together, and there was a sense of collective ownership in every detail.
Shopping was an experience of its own. Designer lehengas and tailored themes were unheard of. Instead, the bride would don a traditional Benarasi sari, often picked out during trips to Mirpur or New Market, accompanied by an entourage of family and friends. The dalas were personalised, often lovingly hand-decorated with ribbons, paper flowers, and even glitter by cousins or close friends. It was all about the effort, not the optics.
Fast forward to weddings today and the contrast is stark. The events are highly curated —meticulously planned with theme-based decor, designer outfits, choreographed dances, and professional photographers. While the aesthetics are undeniably stunning, they often feel more like a showcase than a celebration.
The pressure to outdo others looms large, with brides and grooms striving for perfection that leaves little room for spontaneity or personal style. Even photographs, though free of the quirky animations of yore, seem to have lost the raw, unfiltered quality that made the 90s weddings so real.
It seems, that in chasing perfection and impersonal grandeur, modern weddings have often let go of the old warmth, the chaotic charm, and the sense of community that defined the 90s. As time comes full circle and more couples are seen choosing simpler events in lieu of mindless opulence, heirlooms in place of designer wear and rooftops instead of palatial venues, perhaps, it’s time to re-evaluate our weddings for their worth and strive to revive the simplicity of the olden days.
Photo : Adnan Rahman
Model : Abdullah Al Mahfuz, Jessia
Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha
Wardrobe: ATTIRE IDYLL ( female model ) , Rulmaker ( male model )
Jewellery: ZEVER By Arohye
Makeup: Sumon Rahat & Team
Set : Eskay Decor by Saimul Karim