A love story that began with a simple Instagram message transcended time zones, cultures, and traditions to culminate in a wedding that was nothing short of a dream. Mehak Pahwa and Kanishk Thareja, two tech enthusiasts who bonded over Bollywood, Punjabi music, and their love for Delhi’s food scene, decided to celebrate their union in a way that mirrored their journey—modern, deeply rooted in tradition, and brimming with heartfelt moments. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the W Hotel in Dubai, their wedding was a grand yet intimate affair, rich with cultural significance and personal touches that made it uniquely theirs.
From a floral-themed Mehndi to an Arabian Night celebration, from a tropical Haldi to a regal wedding inspired by Sabyasachi’s timeless grandeur, every event was curated with precision, elegance, and unparalleled attention to detail. With vibrant decor, music that set hearts racing, and a celebration of love that honoured equality and togetherness, Mehak and Kanishk’s wedding was a poetic symphony of tradition and modernity.
A love story written in the stars
Their journey began in different parts of the world, yet destiny had its own plans. While Mehak was in India and Kanishk in Seattle, their shared love for Bollywood and Punjabi music became the foundation of a connection that grew stronger with every conversation. Their first video call was a moment of serendipity—Kanishk asked Mehak if she believed in true love, and she responded with a classic Shah Rukh Khan dialogue: “Agar kisi cheez ko shiddat se chaaho to puri kaaynat use tumse milane ki koshish me lag jaati hai.” This belief in destiny became the heart of their wedding invite, a hymn to how their love story unfolded.
When Mehak moved to Texas for her master’s, their long-distance relationship blossomed through spontaneous weekend visits, where Seattle’s scenic beauty became the canvas for their romance. It was only fitting that their pre-wedding shoot took place in the city that witnessed their love bloom. Breaking away from tradition, Mehak took charge of the proposal—arranging a flash mob dance at their favourite sunset spot in Washington, complete with Bollywood songs and an engagement ring, redefining the proposal as a celebration of love that knows no gender norms. “Mehak has always been someone who takes charge of her own destiny, and I love that about her. So, when she proposed to me with a flash mob, I wasn’t surprised—just incredibly overwhelmed. It was the most ‘us’ thing ever. A little over-the-top, a little dramatic, and a whole lot of love” – says Kanishk.
The wedding venue: A sunset dream
Choosing a venue was more than just finding a beautiful location; it was about finding a space that resonated with their love story. Since their most cherished memories involved sunsets and water, they envisioned a beachfront wedding, with the sun setting in the backdrop as they took their vows. The W Hotel in Dubai, known for its breathtaking ocean views and luxurious yet intimate setting, was the perfect destination to bring their vision to life. “Walking down the aisle and seeing Kanishk waiting for me, with the ocean behind him and our loved ones around us—it was surreal. In that moment, nothing else mattered. It was just us, our love, and the beginning of forever,” mentions Mehak. With its blend of contemporary elegance and serene coastal charm, it provided an exquisite setting for their multi-day celebration.
The festivities: A journey through cultures and traditions
Mehndi and welcome lunch: A floral fairytale
The wedding celebrations began with a joyous Mehndi and Welcome Lunch, setting a warm and vibrant tone for the days ahead. The event was inspired by the beauty of nature, with floral-themed decor featuring cascading marigolds, pastel-hued canopies, and intricately designed floral arches. Guests were welcomed with refreshing drinks, live instrumental music, and personalised Mehndi stations, where intricate henna patterns came to life on Mehak’s hands, symbolising love and new beginnings.
Mehak wore an electric pink lehenga adorned with delicate threadwork and floral motifs, exuding a romantic and ethereal charm. Kanishk complemented her in a pink and white mirrorwork kurta, effortlessly embodying understated elegance.
Sangeet: A Bollywood extravaganza
As the sun set, the energy soared with a night dedicated to music, dance, and sheer exuberance. The Sangeet was nothing short of a Bollywood blockbuster, with shimmering decor, neon lights, and a grand stage that set the perfect mood for electrifying performances. The couple, their families, and friends took centre stage, dancing to their favourite Punjabi and Bollywood beats, making it a night to remember.
Mehak dazzled in an ash grey glitterati sari, reminiscent of old-world glamour yet contemporary in its appeal. Her wavy, voluminous hair and subtle lips completed the look, exuding confidence and charm. Kanishk, not one to shy away from style, wore a black two-piece, adding a suave touch to the night’s festivities.
Haldi: A tropical affair
The Haldi ceremony was an explosion of colour, laughter, and love. Inspired by the vibrancy of tropical settings, the decor featured bright yellows, oranges, and lush greenery, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. The ceremony was filled with playful moments as family and friends smeared turmeric on the couple, symbolising prosperity and auspiciousness.
Mehak opted for a yellow sari with a thick floral border paired with subtle floral jewellery, keeping the look traditional yet fresh. Kanishk wore a simple white kurta, perfectly in sync with the radiant theme.
Arabian Nights: A mystical soiree
Embracing the spirit of Dubai, the couple hosted an enchanting Arabian Night. The venue transformed into a mystical desert oasis with Moroccan lanterns, silk drapes, and exotic belly dance performances. Guests were treated to Middle Eastern delicacies and aromatic shisha lounges, adding to the immersive experience.
For this opulent evening, Mehak wore a black lehenga with white sequinned flora motifs, she paired it with a metallic white embellished blouse, exuding royalty and sophistication.
The wedding: A Sabyasachi dream
The wedding day was a grand culmination of their love story, inspired by Sabyasachi’s timeless vision of Indian heritage. With an awe-inspiring mandap set against the golden hues of the sunset, the ceremony was deeply traditional yet profoundly meaningful.
Mehak was a vision in a classic red Sabyasachi lehenga adorned with intricate hand embroidery and kali designs, symbolising love, strength, and heritage. Her green polki and emerald jewellery added a regal contrast, while her makeup, kept subtle and radiant by Rhea and Anisha Nagpal, enhanced her natural beauty. Kanishk, equally striking, wore an ivory handcrafted Manish Malhotra sherwani, exuding sophistication and tradition.
A wedding beyond rituals: Equality in every vow
What set their wedding apart was not just the grandeur but the values it upheld. In a meaningful departure from conventional traditions, they redefined their wedding vows, ensuring their pheras emphasised mutual respect and shared responsibilities. They also replaced the kanyadaan with a Kanya and Var Milan ceremony, celebrating their union as equals, a moment that resonated deeply with every guest present.
A celebration to remember
From the meticulously chosen themes to the heartfelt traditions, Mehak and Kanishk’s wedding was a true reflection of their love, their roots, and their vision for an equal and beautiful partnership. Every detail, from the outfits to the décor, was a tribute to their journey—one that began with an Instagram message and blossomed into a love story for the ages.
As they stood hand in hand beneath the Dubai sky, with the sun setting behind them, it was clear—this was more than just a wedding. It was a celebration of destiny, love, and a future that promised nothing but the best.
Bride’s Checklist
The Bride: Mehak Pahwa
The Groom: Kanishk Thareja
The Outfits: Gopi Vaid, Sabyasachi and Manish Malhotra
Venues: W Hotel, The Palm, Dubai
Wedding décor: Vows Vachan
Catering: W Hotel, Dubai
Photographer: Delhi Velvet
Videographer: Delhi Velvet
Mehndi artist: Vijay Bridal Mehndi Artist
Makeup and hair: Rhea Nagpal and Anisha Nagpal
Entertainment/DJ: DJ Nitin
Invitation: Let’s Announce
