The Joyful Fusion of Traditions in a Sikh Wedding Celebration in San Miguel de Allende

Some weddings feel like entire worlds unfolding over several days. Tanya and Rahul’s wedding in San Miguel de Allende was one of those rare celebrations: three days of love, heritage, and joy that brought together Indian and Mexican traditions in the most magical way. Capturing it through my lens was an experience I will carry forever.

Day 1: Mehndi and Sangeet

The celebration began with the mehndi, held in a private home overlooking the Parroquia. What started as an intimate morning of henna soon blossomed into a lively gathering filled with music, laughter, and family.

Among the intricate designs was a sweet personal touch: a tiny portrait of Tanya’s beloved dog, Duncan, woven into the patterns. Friends joined throughout the day, making it a true community moment.

That evening, the energy shifted to the sangeet at the historic Instituto Allende. The space came alive with choreographed dances, vibrant colors, and a dance floor that never seemed to rest. Guests celebrated with endless energy, setting the tone for everything that was to come.

Day 2: The Haldi

The second day focused on the haldi ceremony at Luna Escondida. The hacienda was transformed with marigolds, lanterns, and florals that made the setting feel like it had been lifted from India and placed in the Mexican countryside.

Family and friends surrounded Tanya and Rahul, blessing them with turmeric paste, laughter, and emotion. It was a celebration that felt both playful and spiritual, embodying the shared value that both Indian and Mexican traditions place on honoring elders.

Day 3: Ceremony and Reception

The final day began with quiet and intimate moments. Tanya and Rahul prepared separately, sharing a first look that felt both tender and grounding before the events ahead.

Then came the baraat. Instead of the traditional horse, Rahul arrived in a vintage white Mustang, surrounded by drums and dancing. The Milni followed, uniting families in a warm greeting before the sacred Anand Karaj Sikh ceremony. Conducted in both English and Spanish, it allowed every guest to be fully present and connected.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a relaxed brunch before moving to cocktail hour in front of a waterfall. Mexican heritage was honored with traditional baile folklórico and mariachi performances. 

Dinner was prepared by chef Hiran Patel, whose flavors brought the best of India to Mexico.

The reception was a breathtaking scene designed by planner Lucero Álvarez. Instead of traditional florals, lush greenery and sculptural arrangements filled the space, creating the feeling of an enchanted forest indoors. 

Tanya and Rahul entered to the rhythm of a Latin song layered with the beat of the Indian dhol, perfectly symbolizing the fusion of their worlds. The night unfolded with heartfelt toasts, live music, and a dance floor that lasted until dawn.

From the rituals to the modern details, Tanya and Rahul’s wedding was a true tapestry of traditions. Photographing it was not just about documenting each event; it was about telling the story of two families and two cultures coming together in one of the most magical wedding destinations in the world: San Miguel de Allende.

Vendors:

Planned and designed by Lucero Álvarez Wedding Agency

Dress: Rimple & Harpreet, Sabyasachi

Videography: Daylight Wedding Films

Flower Studio: PS Flower Studio

Venues: Instituto Allende, Luna Escondida

Make up: Cesar Mushi

Hair: Ale RV

Catering: Chef Hiran Patel, Coco Khoury Banquetes

Drinks: Calavera Mixology

Music: VB Music, So Dholi, Hera Music

Mehndi: Mehndi by Verónica