We’ve chosen a simple flow of events - from Chhoti Holi to Holi & Haldi, Mehendi, and finally the wedding and reception - to keep the days calm, joyful, and never overwhelming. Each gathering is meant to bring everyone together in a relaxed and joyous atmosphere.

Time: Evening

Chhoti Holi, also known as Holika Dahan, is celebrated on the evening before Holi and marks the symbolic victory of good over evil. 

The tradition comes from the legend of Prahlad and Holika. Prahlad, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, was saved by his faith when his evil aunt Holika tried to burn him alive in a fire. Holika, protected only when alone, perished instead, while Prahlad emerged unharmed; a triumph of truth and righteousness.

To honour this, people gather around bonfires on Chhoti Holi night, offering grains and prayers to the flames. The fire represents the burning away of negativity and ego, clearing the way for renewal and light. It’s a moment of reflection before the joyful chaos of Holi, reminding everyone that every celebration begins with faith and a fresh start.

Dresscode: As most guests will be arriving on this day, we’re planning a relaxed atmosphere with an informal get-together. Just come as you are. Enjoy some snacks and drinks, and save your energy for the following days!

Times: Morning until afternoon

The Haldi is one of the most heartwarming (and slightly messy!) rituals in an Indian wedding. 

Traditionally, friends and family apply a paste of turmeric, sandalwood, and rose water to the bride and groom... it’s said to bring good luck, glowing skin, and positive energy before the wedding. What starts as a gentle blessing usually turns into a full-blown laughter riot, with everyone smearing a bit (okay, a lot) of haldi on each other!

And here’s this wedding's fun twist: this one will blend Haldi with Holi! Expect splashes of colour, water, music, and playful chaos as the celebration turns into a vibrant colour party. 

Holi, the festival of colours! Rooted in Hindu mythology, Holi symbolises both the victory of good over evil (the legend of Prahlad and Holika) and the playful, divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha. As the story goes, Krishna, self-conscious about his dark blue skin, coloured Radha’s fair face in jest, and she laughed, beginning a tradition that celebrates love beyond differences.

Holi is, at heart, a celebration of connection, joy, and a touch of mischief. Friends and families gather to playfully throw gulal (colour powder), splash water, and dance to dhol beats under the open sky. It’s messy, loud, and completely liberating; a day to let go, laugh freely, and embrace everyone around you.

And of course, no Holi is complete without its delicious festive treats. There will be sweet gujiyas, chilled thandai (sometimes with a twist...), and plenty of singing and dancing.

Dresscode: Wear something you don’t mind getting a little (or completely) yellow and rainbow-tinted and never plan to wear again.

A few pro tips:

1. Oil up! Apply coconut or another dermatologically good oil to your skin and hair before heading out. It makes washing off colour much, much easier, and you won't find colour stains in hidden places on your body for days...

2. Dress light and bright. White or pastel cotton clothes show off the colours best (and stains are part of the fun!).

3. Protect your eyes. Sunglasses help with surprise gulal attacks. But in any case, we'll make sure there are only natural and non-toxic colours used. 

4. Hydrate and snack. 

Times: Noon until evening

Get ready for one of the most colourful and joy-filled parts of an Indian wedding: the Mehendi! 

Traditionally held a day or two before the wedding, this event is all about celebration, music, laughter, and of course, henna, which is the plant-based dye used to create intricate designs on the hands and feet.

In Indian culture, mehendi isn’t just decoration, but rather symbolism of love, prosperity, and good luck for the couple. Legend even says that the darker the bride’s mehendi, the deeper the love between her and her partner (and her mother-in-law’s too).

While it has deep traditional roots, the modern mehendi function is more like a relaxed garden party-meets-festivity. Expect vibrant marigold décor, music, dancing, friends and family getting their hands painted, and a whole lot of laughter. The bride sits for her mehendi session - which can take hours - surrounded by everyone singing, eating, and celebrating.

It’s a perfect time to unwind before the big day, get into the spirit of the wedding, and enjoy the colours, aromas, and energy of Indian festivities. You don’t need to know how to dance but just join in and have fun. 

Dresscode: Think bright, comfortable, and festive; something you can dance, eat, and maybe get a little henna on!

Time: Morning (Rituals) and Evening (Reception)

Pheras:

The wedding ceremony is the most sacred and meaningful part of the celebration in a blend of spirituality and tradition. 

Centred around the holy fire (Agni), which represents purity and divine energy, the ceremony is performed as the couple takes seven sacred circles, or pheras, each one symbolising vows of love, respect, commitment, and harmony.

Throughout the rituals, the priest chants Vedic mantras - ancient Sanskrit hymns that invoke blessings from the gods and the universe itself. These mantras are believed to purify the moment, guide the couple toward a life of balance and virtue, and bind their souls in a sacred partnership that extends beyond this lifetime.

Every element - the fire, water, flowers, grains, and air - symbolises nature’s role as a witness to the union. The ceremony is long and immersive, not because of formality, but because each step carries centuries of meaning in one timeless celebration.

Dresscode: Festive, colourful, and comfortable! Since the ceremony takes place outdoors in the forest during the day, go for long fabrics. Think spring or earthy colours and easy layers like light scarves or shawls for when the breeze picks up, and footwear you're comfortable walking in. And no heels! The forest paths are uneven. 

Reception:

A Garhwali wedding reception is a warm, heartfelt celebration rooted in mountain tradition and community spirit.

After all the wedding rituals are done, the entire village comes together - families, friends, and neighbours - to bless the newlyweds. The air fills with folk music and the aroma of traditional Garhwali dishes served generously to everyone. Elders offer their blessings and the young dance to dhol beats for an easy spirit that fills the hills. It’s less about formality and more of a beautiful reminder that marriage here isn’t just the union of two people, but the joining of an entire community.

This one will be extra special, featuring live performances by popular local Garhwali singers, so expect dancing!