Welcome to Planet India

Last February 2020, we set foot in India for the first time, and within moments of stepping out of Chennai airport, we knew we were about to experience something extraordinary. The energy, the colors, the sheer vibrancy of it all—it was like landing on another planet.

From the very beginning, Sim and Kartik made us feel at home, welcoming us with open arms and settling us into Novotel Chennai alongside their guests from all over the world. We had no idea that the next few days would be some of the most intense, emotional, and mind-blowing experiences we’ve ever had.

Day 1 – Sunrise, Temples & A Lost Photoshoot

Our first day started early—before sunrise—as we set off to shoot at the breathtaking Mahabalipuram Temple, right by the beach. However, once we arrived, we realized that we needed a special permit to shoot inside the temple. The session was lost, but the visit was worth every second. The air, the history, the energy—unforgettable.

Jet lag hit us hard, and what was supposed to be a short power nap turned into a three-hour crash, but we needed it. That night, the wedding celebrations officially kicked off with an intimate welcome dinner at the Blue House, setting the perfect tone for the days ahead.

Day 2 – Haldi, Holi & A Riot of Colors

This was the day we had been waiting for! The Haldi Ceremony was first, where a golden paste was applied to Sim and Kartik by their loved ones in a joyful, intimate ritual. Then came the Holi Party—and wow, what a spectacle! The Dakshina Chitra venue was stunning, and as we got lost in clouds of pink, yellow, and blue powder, we knew this would be an experience we’d never forget.

The streets of Chennai were already overwhelming with their chaotic beauty, but Holi in India? That was next level. The colors, the traditions, the feeling—it was pure, uninhibited joy.

Day 3 – Mehendi & The Epic Sangeet Party

After a much-needed night’s sleep, we headed to The Royal Palms for the Mehendi Ceremony, where Sim’s hands and feet were beautifully decorated with intricate henna designs. It was a celebration of tradition, beauty, and family.

Then came the Sangeet Party, and honestly? It was insane. This wasn’t just a party—it was a full-blown festival. Picture music, dance battles, laughter, and unfiltered happiness. It was loud, it was grand, and it was fucking epic! Both families came together, breaking barriers and celebrating as one.

Day 4 – The Wedding – A Spiritual & Emotional Rollercoaster

And finally, the wedding day. The ceremony took place at Ideal Beach Resort, and despite three days of partying, everyone somehow found the energy to start the celebrations at sunrise.

The Groom’s Arrival (Vara Yatra) was a party in itself—music, dancing, drumming, and uncontainable energy. Kartik made his grand entrance before the Tilak ritual marked the start of the ceremony.

The wedding took place inside a beautifully decorated Mandap, an elevated floral structure where the couple exchanged vows, prayers, and sacred traditions. One of the most touching moments was when Kartik placed a beautiful necklace on Sim, symbolizing their commitment. Then, with their garments tied together, they circled a sacred fire seven times (Saptapadi), sealing their bond in the most meaningful way. Finally, in a moment of joy, they showered each other with rice (Talambralu)—a symbol of prosperity, happiness, and new beginnings.

Looking back, it’s hard to believe how close we were to the world shutting down. Just two months later, the entire planet was in lockdown.

We feel incredibly lucky to have experienced India, its traditions, its people, and this once-in-a-lifetime wedding. Those four days changed us, and we will forever miss the magic, the madness, and the memories we made together.