Capturing Maharashtrian Weddings – Traditions Through the Lens
There’s something truly magical about Maharashtrian weddings—where simplicity meets grace, and traditions whisper stories of generations past. As a wedding photographer, I’ve been fortunate to witness and document these culturally rich ceremonies. But one wedding in Pune still lingers in my heart like a soulful melody.
This is not just a blog about clicking photos. It’s about experiencing every moment, every smile, every tear through the lens—and beyond.
The Call That Started It All
It was a warm Thursday afternoon when I received a call from Rutuja, the bride. Her voice was filled with excitement, and a touch of nervous energy. She said, “Tejas, I’ve seen your work. You capture emotions, not just faces. I want someone who can tell our story honestly.”
And just like that, the journey began.
Location: Pune – Where Heritage Meets Heart
Pune is the soul of Maharashtra—its streets echo the spirit of Shivaji Maharaj, and its homes hold onto values while embracing modernity. Rutuja and Swapnil’s wedding was set in a serene temple mandap in Kothrud, followed by a vibrant reception at a banquet hall in Karve Nagar.
When I arrived in Pune a day before the wedding, the air was buzzing with pre-wedding excitement. Mehendi was in full swing. Women dressed in traditional Nauvari sarees, singing ovya (folk wedding songs), and the fragrance of mogra flowers—it was like stepping into a beautiful cultural painting.
Behind the Scenes – A Photographer’s Perspective
As a wedding photographer, I do more than frame moments—I become a silent part of the family. And Maharashtrian weddings demand your complete presence.
1.The Halad Chadavane (Haldi Ceremony)
The next morning started early. The Haldi ceremony was filled with laughter, turmeric-smeared cheeks, and unexpected splashes of cold water (yes, even the photographer isn’t spared sometimes!).
What I love about the Maharashtrian haldi is the intimacy. It’s not flashy. There’s a rawness and innocence that makes every photograph real and beautiful. I took candid shots of the bride’s grandmother applying haldi with trembling hands—one of those timeless frames where tradition meets love.
Sakharpuda – The Engagement Ritual
Though Rutuja and Swapnil were already engaged, a symbolic Sakharpuda was performed again before the wedding. It’s the official blessing of the union, where the bride is gifted sugar (symbolizing a sweet start). I captured the moment when the groom handed her the saree and sweets with folded hands—it was quiet, but powerful.
Wedding Day – Mangalsutra and Memories
The wedding day started at 5:30 AM. Yes, Maharashtrian weddings are early birds!
Rutuja looked ethereal in a green Paithani saree, traditional nath, and mundavalya (pearls tied across the forehead). Swapnil wore a beige kurta with a golden pheta (turban). As they stood side by side under the mandap, with the sacred antarpat (curtain) between them, I positioned myself perfectly to capture the muhurat (auspicious moment) when the curtain dropped.
That moment when they saw each other—nervous glances, shy smiles, their families erupting in cheers—it’s what I live for as a photographer.
The rituals followed one by one—Kanyadaan, Mangalsutra Dharan, Saptapadi—each filled with meaning, each worthy of more than just a photo. I focused not just on the couple, but also on the side glances between siblings, tearful hugs, proud smiles of parents, and friends sneaking selfies. Every wedding is a story within a story.
The Reception – A Splash of Glam with Maharashtrian Elegance
Unlike the subtle tones of the wedding, the reception in Pune was glamorous. Rutuja changed into a deep maroon lehenga, while Swapnil opted for a dark blue suit. The hall was beautifully lit, and as they walked in hand-in-hand, I captured a shot of them silhouetted against the glowing backdrop—an image they chose as their canvas print.
The night was filled with speeches, dancing, and impromptu singing sessions. But what made it stand out was the unity of modern celebration and Maharashtrian warmth.
What Makes Maharashtrian Weddings So Unique to Capture?
After years of documenting weddings across Maharashtra, I’ve realized something about Maharashtrian weddings:
- They are rooted in rituals – Every action has a reason. From offering puffed rice into the fire (Lajahom) to the bride touching seven stones during Saptapadi—each symbolizes a promise and a purpose.
- They are rich in expressions – The simplicity of the setting highlights genuine emotions. When you don’t have fireworks and horse carriages, it’s the tears and smiles that steal the spotlight.
- They are intimate – Families play a huge role, and it shows. From aunties fussing over the bride’s saree pleats to uncles cracking jokes at the groom—it’s a family story unfolding.
Lessons I’ve Learned as a Wedding Photographer in Pune
- Patience is your best lens – Rituals can be long and sometimes unpredictable. But the best moments come unscripted.
- Blend in – When you stop being just a photographer and start becoming part of the celebration, people drop their guard. That’s when you get the real shots.
- Talk to the elders – I always ask them about rituals and meanings. Their wisdom often inspires the way I frame the story.
- Respect the tradition – Understand the why behind every ritual. It helps you shoot with intention, not just aesthetics.
The Final Album – A Journey in Frames
When I delivered the final album to Rutuja and Swapnil, they invited me over for lunch at their Pune home. We sat together flipping through the images. Rutuja’s mother got teary-eyed seeing the photo of her husband tying the mundavalya on their daughter. Her father quietly said, “You didn’t just take photos. You saved moments we would have forgotten.”
That’s the highest compliment I could ever receive.
In Conclusion
Capturing a Maharashtrian wedding in Pune isn’t just about lenses, lighting, and angles—it’s about culture, connection, and emotion. It’s a journey where the camera becomes an observer of stories passed down through generations. And every time I hold the camera at such weddings, I don’t just see people—I see poetry, tradition, and timeless love.
If you’re looking for someone who sees beyond the surface, who listens to your family stories, and who values every fleeting moment, I’d love to be part of your celebration.
– Tejas Sonar Photography
Documenting Maharashtrian traditions, one wedding at a time.
