After soaking up the vibrant energy of Mumbai, we packed our bags and headed to Chandigarh for the next chapter of our Indian adventure. The pre-wedding festivities were about to begin, and I was beyond excited.
Chandigarh: A Warm Welcome and Pre-Wedding Fun
We arrived in Chandigarh, and the first thing that greeted us was a sight that perfectly captures India’s charm—cows casually dining right outside the airport. It was a gentle reminder that we were in a place where tradition is deeply respected. We quickly settled into our hotel, ready to dive into the wedding celebrations.
Our first stop was dinner and some dancing at a lively club in Chandigarh. The energy was infectious, and it was the perfect way to kick off the festivities. The next day, it was time for one of my favorite activities—shopping! I needed to find the perfect gown for the wedding, and luckily, I had Satwik and Dixita by my side. We managed to pick out an amazing pink sparkly outfit in under 15 minutes. I’m still convinced we broke some kind of world record. After a few alterations, we left the dress at the shop, almost forgetting to pick it up the next day. Thankfully, we remembered just in time.
The groom seeing me holding the dress decided to prank me telling me I shouldn’t have bought a pink shade cause the wedding dress is pink. I got stressed thinking how and when I could return it since the shop was closed for the day. I recalled having asked him about what to wear and what not and he had told me just not white and that the wedding dress would be a light shade (not sure of the color back then). A while later he felt sorry for me and the prank was over. It appears that the bride would love her relatives and friends to wear pink as part of the wedding theme but it turned out I would be the only one wearing the same color. Now… maybe I am team bride!
The Haldi and Mehendi Ceremonies: Tradition Meets Joy
Our first experience with the wedding ceremonies was the Haldi ceremony, which took place at the groom’s house in the morning. We all dressed in yellow, the auspicious color for this event. The welcome we received was heartwarming, and I felt at home right away. The ceremony itself was filled with laughter, love, and a sense of togetherness that was truly special.
During the Mehendi function, where the intricate art of henna took center stage. Watching the beautiful designs take shape on our hands was mesmerizing. I ended up with a stunning peacock adorning my hand, symbolizing beauty and grace. The Mehendi isn’t just a decorative art; it’s a symbol of joy, celebration, and spiritual awakening. Traditionally applied during weddings, it represents the bond of marriage and the love between the couple. The deeper the color, the deeper the love—how beautiful is that?
It was fascinating to see the groom and bride’s names hidden within each other’s Mehendi designs, a secret known only to them. The ceremony was filled with laughter, as family members started the henna process on the groom’s hands. The aroma of the henna and the delicate patterns made the entire experience unforgettable.
In the evening, we attended the pre-wedding dinner for the family and friends. Another experience of Indian fashion unfolding before my eyes. At the same time, I have to admit the Punjabis know how to celebrate! The dancing was like watching a Bollywood ballet, and we tried a bit of our luck in dancing, too.
A Road Trip to Amritsar: Spiritual Moments at the Golden Temple
Between the Mehendi ceremony and the wedding, we decided to take a road trip to Amritsar, home to the magnificent Golden Temple. This holy site is one of the most revered places in Sikhism, and visiting it was a deeply moving experience. We followed the traditional customs: covering our heads, leaving our shoes at the entrance, and washing our feet before entering. The Golden Temple, with its gleaming gold façade and serene surroundings, exudes an aura of peace and spirituality that’s hard to describe.
The temple complex, surrounded by a large sacred pool, has a remarkable history of resilience. Despite being destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, it stands today as a symbol of strength and devotion. The queues to visit the sanctum were long, but the wait was worth it. The atmosphere inside was one of profound spirituality and community, which left a lasting impression on us.
Our trip to Amritsar didn’t end there. We also had the chance to witness the iconic Beating Retreat Ceremony at the Wagah Border. This daily military exercise captures the rivalry, respect, and cooperation between India and Pakistan. The synchronized movements, the lowering of flags, and the electrifying energy of the crowd were nothing short of awe-inspiring. Our thoughtful colleagues had arranged VIP seating for Timothy and me, making the experience even more special. Spotting our teammates in the sea of spectators became a fun challenge, adding a personal touch to the event.
The Wedding Day: A Celebration of Love and Unity
Finally, the big day arrived—the wedding! The ceremony, held in a beautiful venue in Chandigarh, was a blend of rituals, emotions, and pure joy. We have handed yellow and golden scarves to show we come from the groom’s side. The event lasted for hours, each moment steeped in tradition and symbolism. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was vibrant, and the entire day was filled with laughter and love. We danced the night away and captured countless memories through photos.
As the wedding functions came to an end, I felt a deep connection with my Indian friends. Despite our different cultural backgrounds, I realized how much we share in common—the love for family, the joy of celebrating life’s milestones, and the warmth of genuine human connection. This experience truly made me feel like I had gained a second family.
Final Moments: A Bittersweet Goodbye and New Adventures
With the wedding behind us, we had a day to relax before catching a train to Delhi, where we would board a flight to Taipei for WordCamp Asia 2024. But before leaving, we made a quick stop for beer and food with Shivam. And just when I thought the adventure was winding down, I bumped into Bumblebee! Yes, the Transformers character. Of course, we had to take a picture together.
This trip to India was more than just a journey; it was an immersion into a culture rich in traditions, a celebration of love, and a reminder of the connections that bind us all, no matter where we come from. The memories of this trip, filled with laughter, love, and a bit of chaos, will stay with me forever.
Cheers to the incredible experiences, the wonderful people we met along the way, and the unforgettable memories that will keep me smiling for years to come. India, you were truly one for the books!
Next stop WordCamp Asia 2024 with more adventures, starting again from the airport.
