Ridhima Rathi and Ashwin Dare, Taj Lakefront, Bhopal

Framed by calm lake views and refined architecture, Ridhima Rathi and Ashwin Dare’s wedding was an elegant celebration hosted at Taj Lakefront, Bhopal. The celebrations were photographed by WeddingSutra Favorite – Plush Affairs, who documented the wedding with a clear, emotive lens.

How They Met
Ashwin and I met in 2016 at NMIMS University. He was a civil engineering student from Bhopal, and I was a computer science student born and raised in Mumbai. Our first interaction was simple and light-hearted. I was working on the college committee decor when he asked if he could help. I joked, “Are you jobless?” He smiled and replied, “Yes, I think I am.” That exchange turned into a conversation and eventually, a long journey together. We were very different personalities. I am expressive and spontaneous, while Ashwin is calm, grounded, and optimistic. Coming from different cities and backgrounds, our worlds were distinct, but the connection felt natural.

After four years of dating, life took us in different directions post-COVID-19. When I began exploring the arranged marriage process, Ashwin realised he did not want a future without me. What followed were two years of consistent effort, multiple proposals, and many conversations with my parents.“It was not an easy decision,” I share. “Moving from Mumbai to Bhopal came with its own fears. Ashwin’s belief in us gave me the confidence to take that step.”

Wedding Venue
Located along the Upper Lake, Taj Lakefront, Bhopal, offered a serene and well-structured setting for a multi-day wedding. With 152 rooms and suites, the property comfortably accommodated guests while allowing each function to flow smoothly across its indoor and outdoor venues. The lake-facing lawns, natural light, and understated luxury made it a fitting choice for a wedding that focused on experience and ease. Plush Affairs played a role that went far beyond photography. “They were extremely attentive to how we were feeling at every point,” shares Ridhima.
One instance from the reception stood out for the bride. As guests continued lining up for photographs on stage, exhaustion had set in. Sensing this, the photographer stepped in and suggested a quick shoot downstairs. Once away from the crowd, he encouraged the couple to rest, explaining that the shoot was simply an excuse to give them a break.

“That small gesture meant a lot to me,” says Ridhima. “They were thoughtful, respectful, and emotionally aware throughout.” With their intuitive presence, Plush Affairs ensured the experience felt comfortable rather than overwhelming, while still documenting every significant moment with care.

Wedding Functions
Binayak
The Binayak ceremony also known as Ganesh Puja, reflected the spirit of Mumbai. With Ganpati Bappa Morya chants and a traditional setup, the event was devotional and energetic, setting an auspicious beginning to the celebrations.

Haldi
The Haldi was themed ‘Bombay to Bhopal’ and focused on blending both our roots. The decor featured Mumbai elements like auto rickshaws and local trains alongside Bhopali nawabi motifs. The food followed the same route, with vada pav and missal served alongside poha and jalebi. Ashwin also recited shayari during the ceremony, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

Wedding
During the varmala, Ashwin surprised guests by singing live, creating an emotional and intimate moment. He also wore a custom embroidered waistcoat for the sangeet that traced milestones from the couple’s journey beginning in 2016, adding a personal layer to his ensemble.

Timing played an important role in the ceremony, particularly for the sunset varmala. “I was very particular about the timing,” shares Ridhima. “Ashwin made sure the baraat arrived on schedule, and that allowed us to capture the ceremony exactly the way I had envisioned it.” She adds, “The wedding felt organic and emotional, and it stayed focused on the people who mattered most to us.”

Advice For Couples
“A wedding is brief, but marriage is long-term,” says Ridhima. “It is very easy to get caught up in planning details and expectations. Things may not always go exactly as planned, and that is completely normal. What truly matters is how you support each other through the process.” She also adds, “Stay present, protect your energy, and remember why you are celebrating. These moments move quickly, and it is the shared experiences that stay with you long after the wedding ends.”

The Wedding Makers
Venue: Taj Lakefront, Bhopal
Photography: Plush Affairs
Décor: Weddings by R Maheshwari
Groom’s Outfits: Mukti & Kavith Casa (Wedding)
Bride’s Outfits: Roqa (Sangeet), Kalki Fashion (Mayra)
Makeup: Monika Chouksey

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