VALE + ARJUN
Vale and Arjun’s story unfolded over three unforgettable days. A wedding that brought together cultures, traditions, and hearts: from the vibrant rituals of a Hindu celebration to the solemn beauty of a Catholic ceremony.
The setting was Monte Coxala, overlooking the majestic Lake Chapala in Jalisco, Mexico. A magical place that witnessed a fusion of colors, music, attire, and details, all telling the story of different roots bound by the same essence: love.
Choosing a summary was no easy task. From more than 2,500 photographs, I selected 200 to capture the essence of this once in a lifetime celebration: three days distilled into everlasting memories.
Day one:
Day one began intimately, with a short photo session of the couple followed by a warm and heartfelt family dinner.
Day two:
Day two began with one of the most joyful and meaningful Hindu wedding rituals: the Haldi ceremony.
In this tradition, family and friends apply turmeric paste on the couple’s skin. The bright yellow represents purity, prosperity, and the life-giving energy of the sun. Surrounded by laughter, music, and hands covered in color, the couple receives not only blessings but also a spiritual preparation for marriage.
It was a vibrant, intimate, and deeply emotional moment — tradition wrapping love in its warmest, most radiant form.
Day two in the afternoon and evening:
The celebration continued with the Sangeet, one of the most vibrant and anticipated nights of a Hindu wedding.
The atmosphere overflowed with music, dance, and laughter, as family members and friends took turns performing choreographies prepared with love and excitement. The Sangeet is more than a show: it is the union of two families, celebrating through rhythm and movement the joy of becoming one.
Surrounded by lights, dazzling outfits, and songs that gave life to every step, the couple became the heart of a celebration that honored not only their love, but also the joining of their worlds.
Day three:
The day rose with an air of solemnity and anticipation. Beneath a mandap adorned with vibrant flowers, the couple locked eyes as if the world around them stood still. The sacred fire burned at the center, a symbol of purity and divine guidance, while mantras echoed softly in the air. Every gesture, every glance, every word formed an invisible thread binding not only two souls, but also their families and their heritage.
A moment where time seemed to pause —tradition, love, and spirituality beating as one.
Day three in the afternoon and evening:
The Catholic ceremony carried an air of solemnity and emotion. Amid smiles, shared glances, and the warmth of family, Vale and Arjun exchanged vows at the altar, while subtle touches of Hindu culture —colors, gestures, and traditions— blended seamlessly with the solemnity of the moment.
Every moment reflected the union of two distinct worlds: the richness of Mexican roots and the depth of Hindu traditions, celebrated together with respect, harmony, and joy. Every gesture, every blessing, every glance told the story of two cultures coming together through love.
And when the vows concluded, the celebration overflowed with laughter, music, and dancing. Family and friends joined in a vibrant and energetic party, where the joy of the union was felt in every step, every embrace, and every moment of festivity.
