From the Console to Kolkata: My Brother’s +1 at Sahil and Aanisha’s Indian Wedding

When I first planned to be in Egypt this spring, I never imagined I’d find myself in a kaleidoscope of color, music, and warmth on the other side of the continent. But when my brother mentioned that his longtime online gaming friend, Sahil, was having a Kolkata Indian wedding, I had to ask—“Would it be weird if I tagged along as your +1?”

He asked Sahil, and the answer came back: “Of course not!” And just like that, I was swept into one of the most beautiful and generous wedding experiences of my life.

Welcomed Like Family

Sahil and Aanisha’s families embraced us with a warmth that left a lasting impression. Even though most of the guests had only heard of “the guy from Seattle Sahil games with,” they didn’t know my brother’s real name—but that didn’t matter. Laughter flowed freely, conversations were easy, and everyone was genuinely curious about our journey to be there.

We were invited not just as guests, but as part of the celebration. And that meant chai, so much chai, unforgettable Indian food, and dancing until our feet gave out.

The Events: Four Days of Festivities

All wedding events took place at Raajkutir in Kolkata, a heritage-style boutique hotel that felt like stepping into a royal past. We stayed nearby at Hotel Monotel, with transportation provided—a thoughtful touch that made everything smooth and accessible.

Day 1: Arrival and Mehndi

The mehndi ceremony kicked off the celebrations with henna designs and colorful daytime vibes. I got my hand adorned with intricate patterns while sipping on spiced chai and chatting with the bride and groom’s friends and family. We were encouraged to wear vibrant outfits—and let me tell you, the colors didn’t disappoint.

Night 1: Sangeet

The evening transformed into a musical affair—literally. Friends and family performed choreographed dances, heartfelt songs, and playful skits that had us all laughing and tearing up. We were treated to a feast and more dancing after the formal performances wrapped up. Imagine a Bollywood musical with open arms for everyone to join in.

Day 2: Haldi

Turmeric paste, known as haldi, was ceremoniously applied to the bride and groom in a ritual of blessings and beauty. We were asked to avoid yellow (a practical request—haldi stains!). The atmosphere was light-hearted and filled with anticipation for the evening to come.

Night 2: The Wedding and Reception

This was the moment. Dressed in formal attire, we watched the beautiful rituals unfold—from the traditional Hindu ceremony to the joyful reception afterward. The air was filled with music, marigolds, and a sense of wonder.

And the food? Absolutely divine—course after course of regional Indian dishes, lovingly explained by family members making sure we didn’t miss a thing.

Notes for Future Wedding Travelers

• Clothing Tip: Don’t stress about not having Indian attire. While many guests wore traditional outfits like lehengas, saris, or kurtas, western formalwear was totally acceptable and still made us feel part of the celebration.
  
• Health Tip: Stick to bottled water, avoid street food, and be careful with anything cold or uncooked. These tips from the couple themselves kept us feeling great throughout the trip.
  
• Transportation Tip: Ola Cabs works great in Kolkata and is a reliable alternative to Uber.
  

Why This Kolkata Indian Wedding Was So Special

It wasn’t just the glittering outfits or the delicious food that made this celebration unforgettable. It was the way everyone welcomed us—with curiosity, kindness, and so much joy.

Sahil and Aanisha’s wedding was a celebration of love in its purest, most festive form. It was a reminder that even virtual friendships (like Sahil and my brother’s from their gaming days) can turn into real-world connections that bring people halfway across the globe together.

Want more stories like this?

Sign up for my free newsletter for behind-the-scenes travel tales, tips for cultural experiences around the world, and upcoming group adventure opportunities.

Don’t miss my past blog: I Got Detained in India for 8 Hours Over My Satellite Phone – What Travelers Need to Know.