Manisha's swayambar: A private affair
The Himalayan Times, 18-Jun-10
Abhilasha Subba
The bride-to-be looked more ravishing than one had imagined in a baby pink chiffon sari with silver embroidery as she welcomed the early guests to her swayambar ceremony.
Yes, acclaimed actor Manisha Koirala was busy making guests feel welcome and comfortable for her swayambar that was to take place in the afternoon of June 18. Showing much interest in the little ones around, one could hear her remarking, “ArrĂ© kati thulo bhayechha (Oh! How big he’s grown).”
The venue — Gorkarna Forest Resort — was decked just as beautifully for the swayambar of the year on this day. As per their wishes, the decoration was not overdone, it was more subtle and understated in keeping with the private affair. Traditional music filled the air, a huge white tent was set up in the courtyard where guests could relax and enjoy a lavish spread.
Renowned Bollywood actor and Koirala’s good friend Deepti Naval, the bride-to-be’s first co-star (leading man) Vivek Mushran, Suman Ranganathan and Govinda’s better-half Sunita with son Harshvardan along with some business honchos from Delhi had made it to the Capital to bless the couple.
One of Koirala’s co-stars in many films Jackie Shroff is expected to fly in tomorrow.
Koirala is marrying Nepali businessman Samrat Dahal on June 19. It is believed the two met around six months ago at a private gathering.
The swayambar ceremony took place in the Mrighatrishna Banquet Hall, right next to the courtyard.
Looking like a million dollars in a golden yellow coloured sari for the ceremony, the bride completed her look with a dazzling diamond set. The groom looked dashing in a black suit, striped tie and Nepali topi.
The swayambar started at around 2:00 pm and continued till the evening as groom’s family arrived with the saipata, a traditional ritual where the groom’s family brings trays filled with gifts for the bride. The bride’s wedding sari is part of the saipata.
No stone was left unturned to make this swayambar a memorable one. The seating arrangement in the courtyard was more intimate with tables and chairs placed conveniently for a gathering of close family and friends.
The cuisine served had a mixture of both traditional Nepali dishes and international delicacies. The typical Newari dish samay baji was the centre of attraction for foreign guests.
Though the media were not allowed in the venue initially, however, the couple were considerate enough to open the gates for the lensmen to get a few shots.
The wedding is scheduled to take place at Gokarna on June 19 and the reception will take place at Soaltee Crowne Plaza on June 20.
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