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India is a country where hospitality is a way of life. It has a
culture steeped in tradition and colourful customs revered for centuries. It is
a land where history lives in music & dance. Its cuisine reflects social and
geographical diversity. To experience the essence of India, we have put together
a variety of spectacular events – from theme parties and specialty banquets to
boat cruises and dance performances. Combined with the Indian experience, the
result can only be unforgettable. Some of the themes available at the venues are
listed below:
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The Mughal Theme
Go back to the historically fabled world of the great Mughals. "Chobedars"
(gatekeepers) usher guests to the " daawat-khana" (dining room). Hostesses clad
in silken, flowing "shararas" (skirts) and "chunnis" (veils) welcome the guests
with flowers and "attar" (perfume) in the traditional style. Flamboyant folk
dances herald a sumptuous spread of Mughlai delicacies, served in a manner
befitting royalty. |
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Durbar Theme
Guests with traditional "pagris" (turbans) and "chunnis" (scarves) are welcomed
with a shower of rose petals and " attar" (perfume). Traditionally attired
attendants serve a sumptuous meal in silver thalis on "bajots" (low tables) to
guests seated on mattresses. |
Village Fair Theme
A village setting is created with bamboo huts, benches and stalls. Villagers
mingle with guests and display their traditional skills such as doll making,
puppet making, pottery, " pichwai" painting and other crafts. Entertainment
includes a "bandarwala" staging a monkey show, a palmist, a snake charmer, "kachi-ghodi"
& "dhamal" (a performance with a dummy horse, dancers and singers). After a
splendid dinner, a fascinating display of fireworks brings a memorable evening
to an end.
Chowk Theme
Set in a "chowk" (street market) with all its colourful attractions. Street-side
dishes are cooked in front of you. Discover " kadai" and "tawa khana" - hot
tasty delicacies, snacks and Indian breads cooked on a griddle. For dessert,
visit the "mithai-wala" (sweet-maker) and the "thela-wala " who tempts you with
fresh fruits. There is a "paan" (betel leaf) shop which also sells "bidis"
(freshly rolled Indian cigarettes). A "mehendi-wali" traces intricate designs
with henna on the hands of the ladies. A bangle-seller offers a glittering array
of glass bangles in vibrant hues.
The Mughal Theme
Go back to the historically fabled world of the great Mughals. "Chobedars"
(gatekeepers) usher guests to the " daawat-khana" (dining room). Hostesses clad
in silken, flowing "shararas" (skirts) and "chunnis" (veils) welcome the guests
with flowers and "attar" (perfume) in the traditional style. Flamboyant folk
dances herald a sumptuous spread of Mughlai delicacies, served in a manner
befitting royalty.
Durbar Theme
Guests with traditional "pagris" (turbans) and "chunnis" (scarves) are welcomed
with a shower of rose petals and " attar" (perfume). Traditionally attired
attendants serve a sumptuous meal in silver thalis on "bajots" (low tables) to
guests seated on mattresses. |
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A Picnic to Remember
This theme conjures up the spirit of a Mughal camp set up to celebrate a battle
victory. On the lush green lawns of the Taj Khema, a tableland overlooking the
famous Taj Mahal, colourful " khemas" (decorated tents) are set up. Guests are
welcomed by soldiers attired in the costumes of the Mughal dynasty amidst
fanfare that befits a victorious warrior. Relax on mattresses laid out on the
lawns while Mughlai delicacies are served. Local artisans display their skill
while musicians and dancers perform.
Village Fair Theme
A village setting is created with bamboo huts, benches and stalls. Villagers
mingle with guests and display their traditional skills such as doll making,
puppet making, pottery, " pichwai" painting and other crafts. Entertainment
includes a "bandarwala" staging a monkey show, a palmist, a snake charmer, "kachi-ghodi"
& "dhamal" (a performance with a dummy horse, dancers and singers). After a
splendid dinner, a fascinating display of fireworks brings a memorable evening
to an end.
Chowk Theme
Set in a "chowk" (street market) with all its colourful attractions. Street-side
dishes are cooked in front of you. Discover " kadai" and "tawa khana" - hot
tasty delicacies, snacks and Indian breads cooked on a griddle. For dessert,
visit the "mithai-wala" (sweet-maker) and the "thela-wala " who tempts you with
fresh fruits. There is a "paan" (betel leaf) shop which also sells "bidis"
(freshly rolled Indian cigarettes). A "mehendi-wali" traces intricate designs
with henna on the hands of the ladies. A bangle-seller offers a glittering array
of glass bangles in vibrant hues.
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Maharaja's Welcome
As was in the past, when the victorious Maharajas returned from war, a stunning
tableau of decorated camels and elephants unfolds before you on the lawns of the
palace/hotel. Ladies in Rajasthani costumes perform the traditional garlanding,
"aarti" and "tikka" ceremonies while the music of the " shehnai" welcomes you.
Afterwards relax with a welcome drink. |
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Grand Royal Procession Welcome
This theme recreates the ambience of the welcome accorded to a victorious Rajput
warrior. The entire drive-way to the palace/hotel is lined with caparisoned
elephants & camels. Elephants with trunks raised in salute, accompany guests who
are taken in royal carriages or on elephant back to the hotel. A band of
musicians and horsemen precede the procession amidst a shower of rose petals.
Valets drape each lady with a " duppata" (stole) and the gents are dressed up
with "safas" (Rajasthani turbans). Guests are greeted with garlands and the "tikka"
ceremony is performed. Afterwards relax to the music of the " shehnai" while you
sip a welcome drink and enjoy Rajasthani folk dances. |
Rajput Wedding
A traditional Rajput wedding ceremony where the group members participate as the
"baraat" (the bridegroom's family and friends who form the wedding party) and
the bridal party. The baraat arrives with a local band, complete with "mashaals"
(torches). The hosts (the bride's family) receive the baraat and the wedding
ceremony is performed under a decorated "mandap" (pavilion). The "Meena Bazaar"
(a colourful bazaar for the ladies) also forms an integral part of the setting.
A festive buffet meal, laid out for both parties in the illuminated palace-hotel
is accompanied by spirited "shehnai" music and folk dances. Also accompanying
the ceremony is the traditional "mehendi" (henna) application for the ladies,
which is considered auspicious at the time of an Indian wedding.
Baradari Dinner
This gala is held on a cool, open terrace under a starlit sky. Earthen lamps and
"mashaals" (torches) lend a rustic look to the terrace. Relax, as royalty would,
on soft, satin mattresses with cushions and bolsters. Enjoy a superb Rajasthani
sit-down " thali" (a traditional plate) meal while folk dancers perform for you.
Elephant Polo
In the land of Maharajas & princes and palaces & forts, the game of elephant
polo was one of the ultimate royal experience. Players are greeted at the
palace's sprawling lawns by a royal military brass band. As in yesteryears, the
arrival of the guests is accompanied by the beating of 'nagadas' (huge Indian
drums) and a tableau of horses and camels, along with ladies attired in
traditional costumes add to the royal welcome, before the start of the game.
Folk artistes regale the audience with music and dance during the change-over. A
sumptuous meal ends this majestic event.
Mewari Terrace Dinner
On the Mewar terrace of the Lake Palace, a traditional vegetarian feast, culled
from the robust cuisine of Mewar (a historic battleground of Rajasthan) is
regally served to you.
The Lily Pond Dinner
Under the stars beside the picturesque Lily Pond at the Lake Palace, a sumptuous
buffet consisting of a variety of Chinese, Continental and Indian specialties
(including fiery curries for the strong hearted) and desserts are served.
Accompanying the meal are Indian classical music and folk dance performances. |
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The Gangaur Boat Cruise
The Gangaur boat is the antique royal barge of the house of Mewar. The barge is
decorated in a regal way and lit up to resemble a fireball from a distance. The
guests are taken around the mystical Lake Palace.
The Lake Palace Extravaganza
This theme is a combination of a royal welcome, a cruise with cocktails on the
Gangaur boat and a dinner at the Lily Pond with a sitar player to set the mood.
This is topped off with folk dances and a fireworks display.
Streets of Udaipur
On the terrace of the hotel, the city of Udaipur is recreated for you. Balloon
shooters, an astrologer, a snake charmer are only some of the local attractions.
Street-side stalls offering the choicest of Indian eateries adorn the venue.
Mumbai Sidewalk Yatra
Go gallivanting into the mean streets of Mumbai. Try out every single offering
the sidewalk promises. Gorge on the bhel, vada pav, Lucknowi Kebabs, North
Indian Chaats, the 'anna's amalgamation' of all Indian cultures. Swerve with the
crowds, buy bargains & boogie on the sidewalk. Try out the magazine stall, curio
shops, and the 'phoren' goods store while taking a swig of our barman's
delightful concoctions. All this without a speck of dirt on your shoes.
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Experience Bollywood
Lights, Camera, Action!! Guests in garish costumes, some posing as directors,
some as action heroes, romantic leading ladies, ruffians, the list is endless...
Make your way through the various sets of a typical film studio, from a palace
to the village square. See men with cameras mounted on cranes shooting
sequences, inviting you to live your dreams of becoming a film star. Continue
your tour of Film City's electrifying ambience while dining on delicacies that
are no less interesting than the 'masala' (spice) of Indian movies.
Goan Carnival Theme
Join a traditional carnival, which is part of Goa's rich Portuguese heritage.
Where revelry, song and dance, great food and good wine come together
beautifully. Discover the joys of Goan cuisine at a delightful buffet dinner.
Grand Cruise Dinner
Enjoy a moonlit cruise on the River Mandovi under Goa's clear skies. Dine on
local delicacies under the stars, while enjoying Goa music, enhanced by the
sounds of the sea. A live band of local dancers can also be organized. |
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Seafood Barbecue on the Beach
Dine under a starlit sky on succulent lobsters, jumbo prawns and other local
seafood delicacies which form part of a delightful barbecue set up on a lovely
stretch of the Goan beach. Guests may also cook their own food on skewers over a
campfire. A local musician captures the magic of the moment on his guitar
strings.
Kunbi Fishing Village
Fishing villages are part of Goa's rich cultural heritage. A local Goan fishing
village is created on the grounds of the hotel. This forms a perfect backdrop
for a charming evening in a very rustic atmosphere. Artisans display their
skills whilst the village dancers whirl to the music of a local band.
Moonlight Boat Cruise on the Backwaters of Kerala
Guests are ferried aboard a spacious, specially decorated boat for a delightful
moonlight cruise on the backwaters of Cochin. South Indian culinary surprises
are served. A thrilling fireworks display on an island off the backwaters of
Cochin concludes a wonderful evening.
Kerala Village Theme
Amongst country boats with fishing nets, the local toddy shop, fruit vendors and
people working in paddy fields, we transport you to a traditional Kerala
village. Dine on traditional cuisine served in clay pots, under thatched coconut
leaf roofs. Hurricane lanterns and traditionally attired attendants add to the
ambience.
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Kerala Village Tour
Ride through Kerala's heartland in wooden 'valloms' (boats) that glide
effortlessly through the green waters. Leave the crowded cities behind as you
move through Kerala's lush beauty and serenity and enjoy a packed lunch on
board. Visit small islands along the way to glimpse traditional life in
villages. Traditional fish farms, the famed Chinese nets, coconut groves and
paddy fields are just a few of the sights you will see. Bird watchers will be
entranced by the close look at Kingfishers, Cormorants, Woodpeckers and Kites.
Local Martial Arts Performance
The martial arts are believed to have originated in South India. "Kalaripayatu"
is the local traditional martial arts form. Kalaripayatu derives its name from "Kalari"
(gymnast) in which this martial arts form was first practiced. The performance
will include various authentic forms of armed and unarmed combat. "Silambarn" is
the ancient art of staff fencing. Most Silambarn martial art exponents were the
bodyguards of the Tamil kings. Silambarn is now a refined art form of
self-defense and physical exercise which makes for a brilliant spectacle.
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India Tours
North India : New Age Golden Triangle, India Nepal,Raj Rajasthan, Rooftop of India-Ladakh, Himachal Experience
South India : Southern Splendour, Down South
East india : East India Experience, Discover Arunachal
West India : Glimpes of Gujrat, Western Circuit
Specials : Pushkar, Diving destinations, Indian Wildside, Buddhist Pilgrimage, Bhutan, Tribal tour of Orissa
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