Bridal Bollywood

Hands decorated with henna, fingers laden with jewels, elegant dresses gorgeously crafted with fine threads and sequins draped from head to toe, this must be a Bollywood dream. The wedding banquet is surrounded by colourful drapes, with the familiar faces of friends and families, all dressed in the gorgeous saris and looking up with love and warmth - welcome to the big fat Indian wedding.

The manicured courtyard of The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur becomes the sweeping stage to the swankiest of Bollywood’s weddings. 200 guests are generously accommodated in front of the blush-coloured palace. Reception is served by Suryamahal. The crowd is invited to Lake Pichola, where photographic numbers are taken at sunset, and the royal couple can escape into a short boating trip before heading straight into the resort’s royal suite. www.oberoihotels.com

Rajasthani musicians take their cue as the mighty doors of Umaid Bhawan Palace swing open. Still home to the royal family, the majestic yellow sandstone fortress is a symphony of both exclusivity and extravagance. The ceremony is held under the amber-lit pavilion showcasing hints of European inspirations. Food is served in the swanky Risala.

The Sunken Lawn of Rambagh Palace, a sprawling stretch of lush botany and fountains, becomes a breath-taking venue to an outdoor wedding. Peacocks prance around and add colour to the crowd of 200. During the reception, Suvarna Mahal unleashes the many gastronomic palettes of royal India while traditional music engulfs the hotel’s historic walls. www.tajhotels.com