Romani Wedding Secrets: How Baksheesh is Shared Across Borders

Cobe Reveals Secrets of Romani Weddings: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Baksheesh Distribution Belgrade, Serbia – June 15, 2025 – A recent video interview with Cobe, a prominent Romani musician, has shed light on the fascinating cultural nuances surrounding tips, or 'baksheesh,' at Romani weddings. The interview, conducted by Alo portal, reveals how the distribution of these tips varies considerably across countries. In Serbia, Cobe explains, "We all share the baksheesh equally, like brothers." This egalitarian approach contrasts sharply with practices in other countries. In Austria, for instance, the distribution is less communal. Cobe states, "In 90% of cases in Austria, the manager and the orchestra leader take a significant portion of the tips." The video also touches upon the practices in Italy, where a similar system exists. The interview offers a rare glimpse into the financial dynamics of Romani weddings, highlighting the cultural significance of baksheesh and its distribution among musicians. It also underscores the diversity of customs within the Romani community across different nations.