From the intimate Var Pooja ceremony at Apoorva’s family home to the sacred wedding rituals at Renaissance Depot Hotel, day two of this Minneapolis Indian wedding was filled with heritage, joy, and timeless beauty.

Var Pooja: When Two Families Become One

The morning began with the Var Pooja, a ceremony rich in meaning and emotion. Hosted at Apoorva’s family home in Maple Grove, this tradition marks the groom’s family’s first official visit to the bride’s home, symbolizing the union of two families.

As Sanjay’s family arrived, they were welcomed with heartfelt rituals, blessings, and laughter. Gifts and sweets were exchanged, representing goodwill and the weaving together of two lineages. This ceremony set the most beautiful tone for the day, one that balanced reverence for heritage with the joy of beginning a new chapter.

What made the Var Pooja so moving was its intimacy. Unlike the grandeur of the later wedding rituals, these quieter moments at home carried a depth of connection that perfectly complemented the festivities to come.

Bridal & Groom Preparations

After the morning ceremonies, the focus shifted to Renaissance Depot Hotel. At 5 AM, Apoorva began her transformation into a radiant South Indian bride. The morning light streaming through the hotel windows created a natural glow, captured beautifully by Mycah Bain Photography.

Her silk saree, intricate gold jewelry, and elegant hair styling were the definition of timeless beauty. Sanjay looked equally regal in his cream-and-gold attire with pheta, a look that harmonized perfectly with the venue’s historic architecture.

Sacred Ceremony: Honoring Ancient Traditions

Renaissance Depot Hotel was an ideal choice for this celebration. With its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, the venue offered versatile spaces that transitioned seamlessly from family rituals to the grand ceremony. The conservatory light and outdoor patio provided unforgettable backdrops for both traditions and portraits.

Sacred Ceremony: Rituals Full of Meaning

From the playful Kashi Yatra, where Sanjay jokingly considered monkhood until convinced otherwise, to the Antarpat unveiling of the bride, each ritual honored centuries-old traditions. The joyful garland exchange became a playful competition, lifted high by family and friends.

The most moving moments came with the Pradana Homa and Saptapadi. Circling the sacred fire and taking seven steps together as husband and wife brought everyone to tears. When Sanjay placed the matrimonial toe rings on Apoorva and together they looked to the Northern star, it was clear: these were not just rituals, but sacred promises that bound them for life.

Tips for Couples Planning an Indian Wedding

• Highlight the Var Pooja: This ceremony is a chance for intimacy before the grandeur. Invite a photographer who can capture those subtle, emotional details.
• Plan Ample Time: Ceremonies can extend for hours; buffer your timeline so nothing feels rushed.
• Choose a Flexible Venue: Spaces with both indoor and outdoor options, like Renaissance Depot, allow smooth transitions between rituals.
• Educate Your Guests: Ceremony programs help guests connect more deeply with the meaning of each tradition.

A Celebration of Heritage and Modernity

What made Apoorva and Sanjay’s wedding so unforgettable was how it blended ancient rituals with the modern elegance of Minneapolis. Every chant, every blessing, and every joyful smile honored tradition while feeling uniquely theirs.

The vendor team brought the vision to life seamlessly, coordinator Noor Siddiqui ensured the day flowed beautifully, and authentic Indian cuisine from India Palace and Ammani kept guests delighted throughout the celebration.

Sanjay and Apoorva’s Wedding Vendors

Mycah Bain
Owner of Mycah Bain Photography

Bree
Second Shooter

Sarah
Assistant Photographer

Noor Siddiqui
Wedding Coordinator

Noor’s Decor and Events
Planning, Design, Decor, and Florals

Prakash Silks, Koski
Bride’s Attire

GRT Jewelers
Bride’ Jewelry

Make-up with CNA
Bride hair and Makeup and Saree Draping

Srinidhi Silks
Bride’s Party Apparel

Ramraj
Groom’s Attire

Manyavar
Groom’s Party Apparel

Jit Patel
Band/DJ

Fresh India (breakfast and lunch), India Palace (reception), Ammani
Catering

Coffee Cart MSP
Coffee Cart

Nothing Bundt Cake
Cake

redmonddigitalmedia
Videographer

Kahani Events
Swing Rental

Studio Viel 
Photobooth

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Coming up in Part 3: A glamorous reception at Renaissance Depot—complete with emotional speeches, first dances, and a dance floor that didn’t stop until midnight.

✨ Planning your own traditional Indian wedding in Minneapolis? Let Mycah Bain Photography capture your Var Pooja, sacred ceremonies, and every unforgettable moment.