PATTU PODAVAIS AND RAINS IN A FORT

I thought the Fort Ramgarh, Panchkula, Chandigarh would be a regular hotel, made to look like a fort. But it was a real fort and has a history. And because of internicine wars, the fort was split and the better part has gone to the Ramgarh Heritage hotel.
This here is a 360 year-old property and was built by the Chandel Rajputs, who were descendants of Chandel Dynasty which ruled Central India from 800-1182 AD. This fort has been turned into a heritage hotel.
A 37 feet high door welcomes you at the entrance and holds the 'Limca Book of World Records' for being the tallest wooden door in India. The original door was broken during the 1857 mutiny. Later a replica was built in 80s by Kanwar Mohan Singh.  Each panel weighs 21 quintals. 
The hotel is a wonderful amalgamation of old-world charm, modern comforts, which means steep stairs of red oxide and well tiled lobbies. Since heavy rains started as of the 8th morning, rivulets of water flow from all the tiny jharokhas, which on a dry day is the most charming peeping hole. The rooms otherwise are well-equipped and have warm interiors. The help is very warm, polite and incredibly slow.
And we are here for Deepo's wedding. Officially known as Rahul and he is also doctor. He is the son of dear friends Nabanitha and Radhakrishnan.
Both retired from the DRDO and continue to be the best hosts of Delhi. Radhakrishnan was the official photographer at my wedding and therefore I have some decent photos of moi with Murali. Yup, it became official with all these photos.
There was a mehendi ceremony and much cheer abounded. Paneer pakodas, samosas, kaju barfi and hot tea. Power cuts, pouring rains and laughter and gossip dominated this ceremony. We still have not met the groom or his parents. Logistic at work and busy coordination happening in the heavy rains.
Finally met them all at the cocktails and dinner, amidst music, enthusiastic dancing and some delish food even as alcohol flowed. The music for those sitting near the bar (by choice) was the hum of the cooler and the whooshing of several pedestal fans.
Power cuts in this part of Panchkula seemed to be par for the course. The AC took time to kick in yet again, though it dripped water quite in the flow....