Preethi & Keshav's wedding was one steeped in tradition. The Indian-SriLankan couple had traveled all the way from their homes in Australia to get hitched in Bangalore, surrounded by their friends and family.
The mehndi ceremony was carried out at home, with only close friends being present for the celebration. Then, on the day of the wedding, the families participated in yet another pre-wedding ritual called the Kashi yatra, wherein the groom decides to leave his current life and move to Kashi to pursue true knowledge! Post this, Preethi's parents ushered Keshav to the wedding venue, after asking him to reconsider.
A Paradise Pavilion
The Hindu Kannadiga style ceremony took place on a cool December day, at Panchavati The Pavilion, a prominent Bangalore wedding venue.
As wedding photographers based in Bangalore, we were familiar with the aesthetics of the location. But upon seeing the vivid decor and the pulsing energy of the venue that day, we knew we had struck gold. All the smiling faces and the effortless mingling of the guests made for remarkable candid wedding photography.
The mandap at Panchavati is outlined by a water canal filled with vibrant lilies. There are corridors facing this mandap, allowing the guests a clear view of the marriage ceremony and enabling them to partake in the joyous moments. Venues such as these that combine the architectural history of India with modern space dynamics are perfect for wedding photography.
The swing at the venue had quickly become a crowd favorite, and we couldn't get enough of capturing photos with everyone around it.
Tying the Knot
As is customary in some South-Indian weddings, the groom awaited the bride in the mandap with a curtain placed in front of him. Also known as antarapata, this is to prevent both of them from seeing each other until they have poured the jerrige bella (a mixture of cumin and jaggery) over each other's head.
Amidst gales of laughter, the cloth was taken away for the rest of the customs to be followed. The tying of the thali was such a beautiful moment, sure to be a highlight of the wedding photography reel. At this point, everyone looked elated and worthy of capture on film.
During the sapta padi ritual, the couple walked around the ritual fire while taking their wedding vows. Preethi & Keshav were a sight to behold in all their nobility and grace.
To pay homage to one of the most revered sages - Vasishtha and his wife Arundhati, the newly-weds took part in a ritual called Arundhati Nakshatram. The purpose of this ritual is to imbibe the values of equality, loyalty, and marital fulfillment into one's marriage by locating the Arundhati star in the sky.
The Reception
The religious ceremonies having come to an end, it was time for the reception. ITC Gardenia, the venue that had been chosen, was done up in shades of white and lavender to complement the couple's outfits.
Lots of friends of the couple had arrived for the wedding from different parts of the world. The guests were making their way up to wish the happy couple and take photos with them. Everyone was visibly more relaxed, and a general atmosphere of light-hearted fun became apparent.
A towering cake, bedecked in flowers, was brought out to commemorate Preethi & Keshav's special day.
Immersed in good company, all the guests appeared to be having a gala time. They may have joined in as the bride's team or the groom's team, but at that moment, it only looked like one big happy gathering.
