Like every North Indian wedding the Baraat and other functions are extremely delayed. The wedding card says the Baraat is scheduled for 7pm. We reach the venue at 8:30 pm and the Baraat happens at 9:45pm. That’s almost like a 3h delay. But nobody cares. It’s like an open secret. An unsaid rule.
The food is in plenty and it’s good. So we get busy with it. Chaats, sweets, snacks, starters, juices, fruits, salads. Dishes from all over the country—and even a few from neighbouring countries—show up on the plate.
After a photo session within our group, some long conversations, and a lot of waiting, we witness the cinematic entry of the bride and groom. The groom walks in with apsara-like women dancing around him, and the bride enters with smoke effects—like she’s descending straight from heaven. It’s a fun watch for sure.
The mandatory, traditional, clichéd group photo (the one people later use to either see how young they looked or remember who all attended) is clicked. I’m sure the bride and groom will have their cheek muscles aching by the end of the evening from all the smiling.
After all the drama, we return to our rooms late in the night and pack our bags. Tomorrow morning is our flight back to Bangalore.
Next day. The morning is eventless (apart from a couple of last minute cab cancellations) and some loot that happens in the airport in the name of extra baggage. Thankfully our flight back to Bangalore is on time. We painlessly (for a change) reach Bangalore.
The vacation is over. Strangely, everyone is happy being back in Bangalore. Bangalore is home!!
So many questions going on in my head.
Will I visit Sikkim again?
Probably not. Definitely not until the roads and transportation are fixed. And not until Gangtok gets an operational airport.
Was it worth it for me?
No. I’ve seen the Himalayas enough, and Sikkim didn’t have anything novel to offer. Given the pain I went through to witness it, I think there are less painful ways to experience similar places.
Would I recommend Sikkim travel to anyone?
Yes—if they are willing to get me some Zumzin. No otherwise.
Endless thoughts 