Wedding Date on Aug 27, 2021

This wasn't your average wedding folks, there were no guests leaving early from this one. Some might even classify this as an absolute banger, I know I would. The first day (Thursday) began at the Renton Hyatt Regency, where Rahul and Kalika’s immediate family were finally able to officially unite. Kalika showed up in her beautiful traditional red saris, and her hands and feet were completely covered in traditional Henna. Rahul arrived shortly after wearing his white and rose embroidered bandhgala. The two families integrated as one as they relaxed on the 15th-floor balcony overlooking Lake Washington and Mercer Island. After the food was served they commenced the traditional Hadi Ceremony, a ceremony in which the family members all participated in covering the new couple in organic turmeric, oil, and water as a ritual holy bath purification process. The mixture is believed to bless the couple before the wedding. As the ceremony concluded, the two families shuttled over to Kalika's family's residence on Mercer Island. As everyone arrived, they were greeted by Henna artists, cocktails, and food. This was a memorable and significant event for the two families as it cemented their connection together. Friday morning was spent preparing for the rest of the guests to arrive. Soon enough it was already 5pm, and by then everyone arrived safely at the Newcastle Country Club. Food was served by staff and everyone got to enjoy a drink while the sun was falling over the mountains, in the distance. As the night progressed, the large party relocated inside to share some of their favorite memories of Rahul and Kalika. After many tears and laughs, a ceremonial dance broke out that was performed for the couple by the elders and the two bridal parties. Soon everyone in the room had an itch to dance, young and old and before you knew it the lights went dark and the dance floor was alive. To finish off the night, Rocky the DJ/ Dohl Drummer stole the show with his traditional double-ended barrel drum. Despite all of the memories made and laughs had during the previous days, Saturday was no laughing matter; it was symbolic in many ways. For the couple, it was becoming abundantly clear that this was the first day of many that they will be sharing together. Breakfast was served for the guests by the Hyatt Regency staff. Following breakfast, the groomsmen took off on three boats in Lake Washington. As they arrived back at the hotel docks, Rahul's family gathered for the ceremonial Baraat session. Baraat is a term used for the groom and his friends/family. Traditionally the Baraat would go to the Bride's hometown, stay for over 2 weeks, and eventually bring the bride back to the Baraat’s hometown to start their new life together. As Rahul mounted the horse, Rocky the Dohl Drummer began his traditional drumming routine and the celebration was filled with vibrant colors and unified dancing. Shortly after the two families integrated, the wedding ceremony commenced. There wasn't a cloud in the sky as the two lovers tied the knot. The wedding party was so stoked for the couple that the rest of the night was filled with celebration and love. More speeches were given, videos were shared, and memories were made. The young and old stayed throughout the events and cherished the time joining the two families. The young stayed later dancing and singing the night away. The wedding concluded as the happy couple shared breakfast with the remaining guests the following morning. If this wedding showed me anything it showed me the real meaning of family, and its importance as a moral fabric, a backbone, a life-line when life gets difficult.