Our Haldi is a daytime pre-wedding ritual where family and friends apply a yellow turmeric paste on the bride and groom for good luck, protection and a natural “wedding glow”. It’s informal, very fun and a bit messy – there is music, laughter, photos, and usually the haldi ends up on everyone, not just us, so you are welcome to join in if you’re comfortable. Wear something light/comfortable that can get a few yellow stains, and be ready for a very warm, interactive experience.

Our DJ night is the party side of the wedding, with a mix of Bollywood, Indian and international music where everyone – cousins, parents, friends – ends up on the dance floor together. There is no strict dress code beyond smart-casual/party wear; the focus is on dancing, singing along, and enjoying the energy of an Indian wedding celebration. You can dance as much or as little as you like, learn a few easy Bollywood steps from our friends, and simply enjoy the music, lights and crowd.

In our Maharashtrian wedding, the main ceremony happens in front of a small sacred fire, with Vedic mantras and traditional songs called Mangalashtak being recited. At the start, a silk cloth (antarpat) is held between the bride and groom; when it is lowered at the auspicious moment, we see each other, exchange flower garlands, and guests shower us with rice for blessings. We then walk seven symbolic steps around the fire, taking vows for our life together, and perform a ritual where grains are offered into the fire for prosperity. Finally, the groom ties a black‑and‑gold mangalsutra (wedding necklace) around the bride’s neck and applies vermilion (sindoor) in her hair parting – this is the moment we are considered married, followed by blessings from all the elders.