The first dance is the defining moment when your wedding party sees you as Mr and Mrs for the very first time. A twirl around the dancefloor isn't just about honouring tradition; it's an expression of your bond, your combined style and your love for one another... er, so no pressure to choose the perfect song, then!
You want to choose a tune that reflects your relationship, but still has a rhythm that you both can sway easily to. In need of inspo? Look no further. Here's our ultimate First Dance playlist:
The Classic - Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
As a classic teetering on a cliché (but only because it's so good!), everyone from your nani to your baby cousin knows Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. Pay attention to the lyrics and you’ll realise they’re super sweet, while the rhythm is upbeat and whimsical. It also doesn’t hurt to have a song where the man is declaring his love in the very first chorus. For Bollywood kidults, there really is no other choice.
The Throwback - Chura Liya Hai
If you’re looking for a fun song that reflects your playful relationship then look no further than Yaadon Ki Baarat’s Chura Liya Hai. The film was released way back in 1973 but the track has returned to wedding playlists thanks to Bally Sagoo’s 1994 reworking of the tune. It’s timeless and makes a far less generic choice, so if you want something that will surprise guests while also leaving them a little nostalgia, this is our top pick.
For Yash Raj Films fans - Tujhe Dekha Toh
“Jaa Simran jee le apni zindagi” – hands up if you just read that in Amrish Puri’s voice? That'll be everyone, then! For die-hard YRF fans, we love Tujhe Dekha Toh from the 1995 classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge? If you grew up dreaming of finding your very own Raj, then this is what you need to select as your first dance song.
From the first, unmistakable notes you’ll be transported to another world where you can both lose yourselves for a few dreamy minutes - swoon.
The Tear-Jerker - Tum Hi Ho
Nothing speaks of transcending love like Aashiqui 2’s Tum Hi Ho. The score throughout the 2013 movie is without compare, but this track is particularly first dance-ready. It's all so emotional! The lyrics describe selfless love and the endless ways it enriches your life - a fitting message on your Big Day. It’s really a declaration of how much you mean to each other. Tissues at the ready!
The “Is it time for the honeymoon yet?” song- Humko Humise Chura Lo
Just about ready to hop on a plane to your honeymoon beach somewhere sunny, hot, and far, far away? We understand, wedding planning can really take it out of you. That’s why we’d play Humko Humise Chura Lo from Mohabbatein for wedding-worn brides and grooms.
It’s not all about running off hand-in-hand into the sunset, this song is a sweet composition that underlines the rose-tinted view on love. It’s the perfect play for couples who want to keep things light and upbeat.
The Off-Beat Choice - Enna Sona
For the unique couple who does things their own way - and appreciates a good guitar riff - pick Enna Sona from OK Jaanu for your waltz on the dance floor. It’s heavy on the instrumental and has an infectious beat that you – and your guests –won’t be able to resist swaying to.
The Romantic Breather - Samjhawaan
Your first dance moment may well be the only time in the day that you’re alone together. This unplugged version of Samjhawaan from the 2014 movie Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania starring Alia Bhatt will really help you make the most of the moment. Simple and slow, steal five minutes in each other's arms and absorb the magnificence of the day.
The Fail Safe Melody - Dil Kya Kare
Kishore Kumar’s voice in Dil Kya Kare from the 1999 film Julie is iconic. There have been many, many remakes, but nothing come close to the original. If you’re a sucker for vintage then choose this as your first dance as Mr and Mrs. Kishore Kumar has a talent for bringing depth and soul to his songs, and this is no exception.
The fairytale moment - Main Agar Kahoon
You’ve found your prince, the perfect outfit and the day of your dreams. That’s nearly everything, except the true Cinderella moment on the dance floor. We think the crowning jewel to your perfect day is Main Agar Kahoon from Om Shanti Om. The enchanting melody is spellbinding. Dance under the spotlight and feel the rest of the room melt away.
For Ultimate Romance - Moh Moh Ke Dhaage
You, him, Moh Moh Ke Dhaage from Dum Laga Ke Haisha. Pure romance. We’d see this played in a darkened candlelit room with nothing but a soft spotlight on the two of you. The beautiful lyrics and gentle melody will create the perfect setting with which to step into married life. It’s simple and elegant; a song you’ll listen to in the years to come.
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Main image from Zurihsia Studio