Karan and Simran’s backwater fairytale: A royal Punjabi wedding in Kerala

This wasn't just a wedding; it was an experience. A breathtaking fusion of Punjabi vibrancy and Kerala’s serene backwaters, this celebration redefined destination weddings. The couple, Karan and Simran—a UK-based Punjabi duo with a deep love for travel and adventure—envisioned a wedding as unique as their journey. They chose the stunning Leela Ashtamudi, a waterfront property nestled in Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, to celebrate their love in a way that blended grandeur with nature.

From a soulful Sufi night under the stars to a Haldi ceremony that erupted into a joyful, water balloon-fueled Holi celebration, every event was meticulously planned to be immersive. Their Bollywood-style Sangeet had the entire venue resonating with music and dance. But the true magic unfolded when the wedding itself took place on a private island palace, a location untouched by modern wedding celebrations until this momentous occasion.

This island palace, with its old-world charm, provided a breathtaking backdrop. Ornate architecture, vintage wooden structures, and expansive waterways created cinematic frames that felt straight out of a royal love story. Working with natural light in open courtyards and long corridors demanded careful choreography, but the interplay of sun, shadows, and heritage textures brought an ethereal dimension to every frame.

The baraat’s arrival by boat was a spectacle in itself. The groom, surrounded by dancing guests and close family, made his way across the shimmering backwaters as drone shots, reflections, and sweeping perspectives captured the grandeur. Intimate moments unfolded on the boats—laughter echoing, music floating on the breeze, and joy radiating against the serene backdrop of Kerala’s landscape.

Karan and Simran, deeply rooted in their Punjabi heritage and united by a shared passion for adventure, envisioned a celebration that reflected their story while offering an escape from the ordinary. Their connection to music and the arts came alive in moments like the soulful Sufi night and the high-energy Sangeet, both becoming emotional and visual highlights. Their ease with one another brought an authenticity to the lens, making every candid shot feel effortless.

One of the most unforgettable moments was their grand reception entry. Arriving by speedboat under a canopy of stars, accompanied by the sound of a live saxophone, the couple glided toward the glowing island palace in a scene straight out of a movie. The elegance, intimacy, and sense of wonder in that moment turned their reception into pure cinematic magic. Earlier, the Haldi ceremony had erupted into a joyful frenzy—colour, emotion, and high-energy movement making it a photographer’s dream.

Filming on water presented a unique set of challenges—unpredictable reflections, shifting light, and constant movement required the crew to stay agile and adaptive. Lightweight gear, smart logistics, and on-the-go improvisation allowed every moment to be captured seamlessly, despite Kerala’s tropical climate and the island venue’s complexities.

What made this wedding unforgettable was its seamless synthesis of grandeur, nature, and cultural soul. From the historic first wedding ever held at the island palace to the immersive experiences crafted for every guest, Karan and Simran’s wedding broke new ground. Each moment was a tribute to their shared love of tradition, travel, and beauty.

Documented by 1Plus1 Studio, this wedding was more than a celebration—it was a curated experience, woven from heritage, emotion, and natural splendor. From the regal romance of the island palace to the vibrant intimacy of the backwaters, Karan and Simran’s wedding was a masterclass in blending cultural authenticity with contemporary elegance. A story for the ages, told through joy, music, movement—and the magic of Kerala.

All images: 1Plus1 Studio

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