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Retelling a most wondrous Texas trip......

by Manohar Naidu
(Virginia,USA)

“ Its D Day ……..“ Emotionally charged Jagan took the mike in right hand, bits of paper notes on the left hand. An equally emotional Belu, better half of him for 33 years, supporting his right hand with her gentle hold. Jagan commenced his reminiscences of their beloved daughter Arti. Their expressions were controlled, but a feeling of mixed joy and sorrow was palpable - joy to see their daughter marry her perfect prince, sorrow to let go of their most precious possession. All the perfectly dressed guests and relatives listened to their fond adieu with rapt attention.

October 26th, 2013 , the most happening event at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, Texas, USA - the marriage of ARTI to PAVAN. Marriage was performed in the morning at the most auspicious hour following the unique cultural traditions of Indian Andhraite community, amidst all religious fervour and solemn Hindu rituals. It was followed by a delicious typical Andhra lunch that reminded of home (India) instantly!

Evening reception was in a hall, glittering with beautiful lighting, the most beautiful flowers, a multi-storeyed cake and a stamp of affluence on every corner one could find. Candle lit dining tables to seat more than 800 guests accompanied with soft music and real-time display of events by video camera on two side screens - perfect ambience for a great vibrant evening about to begin!

In the hall, Indian and Western music in perfect confluence followed some excellent introductions by friends and family alike. Prabhakar accompanied with Manju, parents of Pavan; Anand brother of Arti and few others also spoke on this occasion and nostalgic memories became alive and emotional with sumptuous banquet. The events were so meticulously planned, managed and executed that everyone was filled with a sense of awe and longing for more and more! Everybody had the time of their lives!!

Handsomely tall Pavan, accompanied with newly wed elegant, gracious and vivacious Arti, gave a very heartfelt and matured speech highlighting his intelligence and confidence in life, as also making her love and affection for Arti ever so evident.

A day earlier, Vinita and Anand hosted dinner with sangeet and dances performed by family members. LUNGI dance (from the hit Bollywod movie Chennai Express) which was performed and participated by each member of the family and then joined by Arti and Pavan was the highlight of the programme followed by dances by young cousins of Arti. Dandiya dance was participated by families and children with the tune of sticks striking in perfect harmony - another evening full of entertainment, excitement, enthusiasm and sheer joy!

Amidst all the fun and splendor of 4 days and nights of beautifully organized festivities, the family values and humility of the ALLAM and THANGUDU families came across as the brightest jewels of them .

Al! Hats off to that ! My blessings to the newly married couple and may they be get everything in life they desire for !

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