Shelar - The bhais of Bengaluru

17 December 2016

Mekhri Circle, Bengaluru Palace Grounds

A patrol van stood next to the lavishly decorated gate of Tripura Vasini on Bengalurus Palace Grounds. The much sought-after venue had hosted many a wedding, anniversary and birthday of Bengalurus elite and influential. The decked-up gate, however, wasnt a patch on the grand affair that was taking place inside. A 500-metre red mud path led through the main gate to a parking lot where luxury wheels such as Bentleys, Mercedes and Audis were jostling for space. A dozen armed guards were manning the second entrancea fairy tale pathway lit up with tiny bulbs leading to three metal detector gates. A prominent sign dangling above the gates read: Photography prohibited, videography prohibited, arms & ammunition not allowed.

Beyond the checkpoints, the dapper host of the grand event was seen welcoming guests. Dressed in a dark-blue velvet blazer, reformed gangster Muthappa Rai had a calm demeanour and could pass for a seasoned actor. The event was the last in a week-long series of wedding festivities for Rais younger son Ricky, who had got married to his girlfriend Ketaki Kumar. A surprised Rai greeted me with a broad smile. From Mumbai, you have come here also? he said, shaking hands with me.

The wedding reception was going to be held at Ela Estates in Yelahanka, a massive farm spread over 250 acres. It belonged to a close friend of Rais. Unfortunately, untimely rainfall caused by Cyclone Vardah in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu had made the farm unsuitable for the high-heeled guests. So, at the eleventh hour, Rai deployed all his resources to make alternative arrangements at Tripura Vasini. An elegant change of venue invitation card was designed, retaining the original theme of white-and-gold and was dispatched to all the guests, with the following words printed on them:

Due to Vardahs Cyclonic effect, we have decided to change the venue of the wedding reception of Chi. Ricky Rai & Sou. Ketaki Kumar scheduled on Saturday, 17th December 2016 from ELA Estates, Muddanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru560064 to Tripura Vasini, Gate no 2, Bengaluru Palace Grounds, Mekhri Circle, Bengaluru80. We deeply regret any inconvenience caused. Kindly note the change and oblige.

An insider estimate revealed that Rai spent over Rs 10 crore on the glitter and the glory surrounding his sons wedding. The highlight of the final event was a huge clear balloon that stood next to the entrance. Ensconced within the giant bubble was a flautist in a red gown playing an upbeat note. This curious exhibition of human talent and design drew many guests, who stopped by to admire the act, which was no less than a rare artefact on display at a museum. Some clicked pictures, bewildered and amused, while others waved at the flautist, receiving little more than a smile from her. At a corner, not very far from this quirky attraction, a three-member band of elegantly dressed women were performing a live act on a small stage decorated with white roses. Liquor flowed generously, with two bars serving the guests the best single malts, whisky, scotch and wines from around the world. For teetotallers, the drinks menu comprised mandarin mojito, nojito, ginger crush, exotica, thunder and lychee cooler. The food counter, spread across two sides to avoid overcrowding, was exhaustive. From Italian staples such as pizzas and pastas to Mangalorean classics such as chicken ghee roast and neer dosas, it was evident that Rai had left no stone unturned to ensure that his guests were well-fed.