2:30 pm - 4:30 pm
We’ll kick off the celebrations with a traditional Malayalee Syrian Christian blessing ceremony followed by tea, coffee, and snacks.
Outfit guide: The vibe is earthy, understated, and elegant: think flowing fabrics, soft golds, crisp whites, and earthy tones that echo the coconut palms and monsoon light of John’s home in Melpadom, Kerala. Whether that means a simple sari, a breezy kurta set, or your own inspired take on traditional wear, we’d love to see your interpretation of the vibe.
7:30 pm - 11:30 pm
It’s time to party! Expect laughter, old friends, new faces, and a dance floor that won’t stay empty for long.
Outfit guide: Indian, Western, or somewhere in between: anything that feels chic and more importantly, feels like you. The primary color for the night is a dark, midnight blue (John's favorite), do as you wish with that piece of information. There will definitely be a dance floor, so wear what lets you dance the night away without a second thought. Comfort first, always. The alcohol will do the rest.
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
The “gaaye holudh” ceremony begins with a traditional boron (welcome) for the couple, followed by a floral haldi shower (no turmeric involved, we promise), good music and celebrations under the sun.
Outfit guide: Think Devdas, Parineeta, or Lootera: whatever cinematic vision of Kolkata speaks to you and rep Sampurna's hometown for one afternoon. The palette is classic red and white, dress like you’ve stepped out of a scene set in an old Kolkata courtyard.
6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
This will be a (somewhat) traditional Bangali biye followed by a dinner reception. The ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m., so please take your seats by then to enjoy the full experience. Expect rituals, laughter, and a little chaos- all the good stuff that makes a Bengali wedding what it is.
Outfit guide: Come dressed in your ethnic best, whatever that means to you. Bold silks, subtle handlooms, or something that simply makes you feel festive.
Hotel
While there isn't a specific dress code for each event, we have included some suggestions on a broad color palette based on each event's vibe. Feel free to interpret these suggestions based on what works for you!
We will arrange transportation for all out of town guests staying at the designated hotel, to and from all event venues.
Please contact one of either John or Sampurna's sisters for any queries. Here are their Whatsapp contact details: Tanisha: +91 9874990158 Maria: +1 9526936236 Elizabeth: +1 5736454542
Please reach out to Sampurna for a detailed guide on tourism in Kolkata.
Kolkata winters are very mild and quite pleasant. Please carry a light layer for the evenings. 2 of our events: gaaye holudh (daytime) and welcome dinner (evening) are outdoors so please plan accordingly.
That's a great question! Our dear, dear friend of many years, Damini Gupta very kindly drew this for us. She is incredibly talented and overall amazing so please do check her out, her instagram handle is @daminope.
Your love and presence mean the world to us. That’s the greatest gift you could give us. If you would still like to mark the occasion with a gesture, we’d be grateful for a cash contribution toward our future together or a donation to an animal shelter of your choice (Thambi would prefer this option). Thank you for celebrating this special moment with us , we are truly grateful.