Indian Wedding Customs

Is an Indian wedding really two days?

Yes — and technically we're giving you the short version! Our two days cover the essentials: Mehndi & Sangeet on Saturday, Baraat, Ceremony & Reception on Sunday. Each has its own mood, from intimate and ritualistic to full-on dance floor.

What happens during the ceremony?

The pheras — seven circles around a sacred fire, each vow representing nourishment, strength, prosperity, wisdom, progeny, health, and friendship. A priest will narrate in Hindi; your program will have English & Spanish translations.

Can I participate, or just watch?

Please participate! Throw flower petals at the Baraat, join the Sangeet dances, put your hand in the Mehndi line. If a ritual is family-only, we'll let you know.

Do I need to know Hindi?

Not at all. Programs will have translations in English and Spanish. Most of our families are bilingual or trilingual and will happily translate for you.

Logistics & Travel

Do I need a visa for India?

Most passports (US, EU, UK, LATAM) qualify for an e-Visa online at indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days, so apply at least a month ahead — by mid-October at the latest. A sample form walks you through every field.

Filling out the online form:

  • If the website gives you trouble, use Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Internet Explorer 9+ and clear your browsing history and cookies.
  • Avoid special characters — . ; ' / ! + , - # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ — in any field. If the form still won't submit, restart your device and try again.

Details you may need for the form — India asks for a local reference. You can use:

  • Purpose: Tourist visa (visiting family)
  • Address: coming soon
  • Local contact number: +91 80503 26632
What's the weather like in November?

Bangalore in November is lovely — 15–26°C (60–80°F), low humidity, mostly sunny. Bring a light shawl or jacket for evenings.

When should I arrive and leave?

Arrive by 13 November to shake off jet lag. The reception ends around 1 AM on 16 November. Fly out 16 or 17 November, or stay longer — see the Travel page for ideas.

Etiquette & Gifts

Is there a gift registry?

Your presence is our present — truly. If you insist, contributions toward our honeymoon fund are welcome; details go out with the RSVP confirmation. In Indian tradition, cash gifts in envelopes at the reception are also very common.

What about plus-ones?

Every invitation is addressed specifically. If a plus-one is included, it'll say so on your RSVP. Please respect this — our venues have hard capacities.

Can I bring kids?

We love them and most events are kid-friendly! The Sangeet and Reception will have a kids' corner with caregivers. Check the specific event on your RSVP.

Should I gift something for the Mehndi / Haldi?

No obligations for the smaller events. If you'd like to bring something sweet — mithai, chocolates from home — our aunties will love you for it.

What should I know about the ceremonies?

Indian weddings have lots of food!

You can expect:

  • Vegetarian options
  • Mild and spicy dishes
  • International dishes

Please let us know in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

Practical Stuff

What if I don't have Indian clothes?

Dress comfortably. If you'd like to wear traditional Indian attire, we're planning a shopping day where everyone can browse together. We'll also continue updating this website with recommendations for places to shop, so be sure to check back for the latest suggestions.

Will the food be very spicy?

Both sides have opinions on this. We're serving a range from mild to medium. Clearly labelled vegetarian, vegan, Jain, and gluten-free options. Let us know any allergies on the RSVP.

Will alcohol be served?

Yes — Sangeet, Baraat, and Reception. The Ceremony and Haldi are dry events (before noon, and religiously significant).

What's the dress code if I'm in the bridal party?

You'll get a separate note with color coordination and timing. Keep an eye on the WhatsApp group.

Still got questions?

We've drafted a WhatsApp group for wedding guests — you'll be added after you RSVP. Or just write us.

Email UsRSVP First