Dharna & Samir | Naperville, Illinois | Hindu Wedding Ceremony
Wednesday, July 14th, 2010
I simply adore Indian weddings. The colorful saris and ceremonial details, the smells of masala, curry, and turmeric wafting through the air, the hypnotic sounds of the drums and unique Indian melodies and the ladies voices singing in unison- everything about it evokes within me such a deep awe and appreciation for their rich cultural celebration. As a photographer, it is a visual feast of colors and textures. As an artist who is moved deeply by emotion, it is one of the most fulfilling events to witness. For in every aspect of the elaborate ceremonies, relationships are honored. It is every much a celebration of the joining of two families as it is the union of the couple entering marriage. There is such an emphasis on relationships between parents and child, siblings, and in-laws and there is significant time spent observing these individuals.
I have the tremendous honor of having been invited to India to photograph a wedding tomorrow. Spending time with Sarah and Chris’s family the last few days here in Kerala has been incredible, and after being a part of their prayer ceremony this evening, I am even more excited to see how their day unfolds. As I spend time in my sweet little hotel room in Trivandrum preparing for tomorrow, I thought it appropriate to share an Indian wedding I assisted on at the end of May.
When Liesl of Liesl Diesel Photo asked me to join her in photographing Dharna & Samir’s wedding in Naperville, I was thrilled. I often marvel over how one small connection leads to another and precipitates an entire chain of events. Like the way Samir’s uncle wandered into the brokerage where Dharna worked, and was so captivated by her that he insisted she must meet his nephew. Neither of them suspected the priceless relationship that would blossom out of taking a simple risk. As I chatted with Dharna and her bridesmaids- girls she met through Samir that have since become her two closest friends, I was even struck by the the circumstances that transpired to allow me to be a part of their day. Years ago while still in college in Rochester, my love for photography was reawakened- and little did I know that down the road I’d meet Liesl, daughter of one of my professors at the time. So many random acquaintances have linked us since then, but it wasn’t until a few months back that we connected again in Chicago, where both of our paths have led us. Liesl’s talent is inspiring and her humor contagious, and I enjoyed every moment working with her!! I feel so very fortunate to have joined her in capturing Dharna and Samir’s celebration in Naperville. 
Dharna, of course, was absolutely breathtaking. Perhaps one of my favorite Indian wedding traditions is the art of Mehendi, the adorning of hands and feet with henna. Within the intricately designed patterns, Samir’s name is hidden. It is said that the groom must find his name in the bride’s decorated hands before the wedding to symbolize the strength of their commitment.
Dharna and Samir opted for doing a “first look,” to spend some time together before the ceremony and have a few pictures taken. It is always so moving to witness their first interaction when a couple starts their wedding day by setting aside a few moments to be together and reflect on the significance of their union. Afterwards, Samir met up with his friends and family for the Baraat. This is a time of celebration and blessings. Samir could not stop smiling in anticipation to meet Dharna again for the mandap ceremony!
Dharna’s mother was so overcome with emotion, that I was almost moved to tears. The Indian Vidaai is the symbolic wishing farewell to the new couple, and there were many more tears, hugs, and laughter following the ceremony.
After the vidaai, Dharna and Samir changed to get ready for the party!!
Liesl and I had a blast at their lively and rowdy Bollywood style reception! (We may have even danced a little.) We also had the pleasure of working with Rogie Cruz from RAC Visual Imaging. Thanks so much Dharna and Samir for allowing us to share your day!