Ira Khan’s Pre-Wedding Kelvan Ceremony Was All About Maharashtrian Delicacies

Aamir Khan and ex-wife Reena Dutta’s daughter, Ira Khan, who is a well-known Indian film and theatre director, is all set to marry on January 3, 2024. Ira Khan, who got engaged to Nupur Shikhare last year, has now been posting all about her pre-wedding rituals which have already begun. An integral part of these celebrations was the Kelvan ceremony, which is like a Maharashtrian bridal shower. On her social media, Ira Khan gave us a glimpse of this traditional Maharashtrian ceremony and here is what it was all about.  

For those unaware, a Kelvan ceremony is basically a feast of sorts arranged for the bride- and groom-to-be only after they have completed the Sakhar Puda or engagement ceremony. Arranged and attended by close relatives and friends, this Maharashtrian event is focused around food. Ira Khan and Nupur Shikhare’s Kelvan ceremony was, naturally then, all about plenty of delicacies prepared in traditional Maharashtrian style. 

In a recent post on Instagram, Ira Khan shared a number of photos and video clips showcasing what her traditional Kelvan feast looked like. In one video clip, it can be clearly seen that there were at least six to seven savoury dishes that were laying around the table. Ranging from what clearly looks like a paneer dish to one with spicy okra and others with deep, rich and spicy gravies, this Kelvan feast looked like a typical and traditional Maharashtrian feast.  

Also Read: Aamir Khan Celebrated Daughter Ira Khan’s Birthday With A Yummy Cake

During this gathering, Ira Khan can also be seen attempting to speak in Marathi. In another post, both Ira and Nupur can be seen sharing a plate of food, which is a tradition across many parts of India signifying marital love and sharing. In that feast too, one can easily spot an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights. In one photo, Nupur can also be seen offering Ira what looks like a teensy bit of Thecha, the spicy Maharashtrian condiment, to taste.  

Traditionally, Kelvan is a ceremony where friends and family arrange for a vegetarian meal, lunch or dinner, to treat the bride and groom. In Ira Khan’s case, the ceremony has clearly been a great introduction to Maharashtrian cuisine and its many gems. Nowadays, Kelvan ceremonies are also done on a large scale and sometimes non-vegetarian food is also included in the spread. However, it looks like Nupur Shikhare’s family kept the ceremony intimate and personal with homecooked delicacies and private celebrations. 

In case you are wondering, a Maharashtrian Kelvan ceremony traditionally includes a feast of foods like Masoor Amti, Varan Bhaat, Puran Poli, a variety of Vadas and Bhajiyas as starters, various main course dishes featuring vegetables and paneer, desserts like Amrakhand, Sheera, etc and beverages like Kokum Sharbat and Chhaas. In many cases, Maharashtrian non-vegetarian staples like Surmai, Prawn and spicy chicken or mutton dishes are also offered up in the feast, though this isn’t a widespread practice.