Dharamsala hosts royal wedding
The scenic town of Dharamsala recently hosted a grand royal wedding as Ambikeshwar of the historic Katoch dynasty married Kamalakshi Singh of Ramnagar Dhameri, Uttar Pradesh, on Tuesday. Ambikeshwar, the only grandson of former Union Culture Minister Chandresh Kumari, carried forward his family’s legacy with this splendid union. The wedding procession, adorned with traditional music and cavalry, passed through Dharamsala’s famous tea gardens in the Chilgari area, adding a touch of historic charm to the occasion.
A grand reception at Brij Anayra was attended by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, alongside notable dignitaries from India’s erstwhile royal families and prominent political figures. The event saw the presence of regal heads from Jodhpur, Baroda, Kishangarh, Jhalawar and several other regions, as well as former Chief Minister Digvijay Singh and Anand Sharma, former External Affairs Minister. Guests arrived from across the country and abroad, despite flight disruptions due to poor visibility, with many opting for road travel.
The wedding was held at the Dhauladhar Heights, where the bride’s family welcomed the procession in traditional Kangri attire, reflecting the rich culture of the Kangra Valley. Ancient customs and rituals, celebrating the region’s heritage, were performed with the help of local artisans and performers who presented traditional Gaddi dance. The event was enhanced by soulful music from renowned artists Sunil Sufi of Kangra and flutist Akhil, capturing the spirit of the hills.
Guests enjoyed local Kangri delicacies, especially the famed Dhaam feast, prepared by celebrated chef Sanju Boti. This royal wedding not only showcased the historical grandeur of the Katoch dynasty, whose lineage is rooted in legends of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, but also highlighted the cultural richness of the Kangra Valley, leaving guests with an experience steeped in tradition and heritage.
