#MarathiWeddings: The Beauty Of Kelwans And Table Décor Ideas For It!

If you’ve been to a Marathi wedding (or stalked enough on Instagram), you’ve probably come across the Kelwan. A warm, cosy and very food-centric pre-wedding dinner that’s basically the Marathi way of saying “Congratulations, now let’s feed you all your favourite dishes until you burst!” Traditionally, it’s hosted by friends and family of the bride or groom. It’s less about rituals and more about love served on a plate. And now, as with every Indian wedding event, it’s getting its own tablescaping glow-up. Because let’s face it, we eat with our eyes first and a beautifully set table just makes that puran poli taste even better.

From rustic marigold-laden setups to fresh banana-leaf spreads, here are some Kelwan table décor ideas that will make your pre-wedding dinner Insta-worthy while still keeping it rooted in tradition.

A Kelwan Straight Out Of Pinterest

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Rajasi Deshpande | Gift Stylist & Space Designer | (@artandaurabyrajasi)

If your goal is to capture pure, unapologetic beauty, this setup has nailed it. Imagine a table blooming with fresh mogra (jasmine) gajras, banana leaves elegantly laid out as natural placemats, rajnigandha and marigold blooms dancing across the scene, and traditional brass serve ware grounding the whole look. It’s like the visuals from your Pinterest dreams came to life and yes, it’s every bit as stunning as it sounds!

Minimalistic Table Setting With White Dinnerware And Gendaphool

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Minimal yet festive. White dinnerware instantly gives a fresh, clean canvas for your food to shine. Pair it with bright gendaphool garlands or loose marigold petals scattered across the table. It’s budget-friendly, elegant, and perfect if you want the food to be the hero while still giving a nod to tradition.

Go Rustic With Florals

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There’s something about brass dinnerware that just feels like tradition. Layer your tables with burlap runners, pop in gendaphool blooms for colour, and serve in kansa or brass plates. This mix of rustic textures and metallic warmth will instantly transport everyone to a time when family feasts were always served this way.

A Touch Of Pink

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If you want to add a softer, more romantic touch to your Kelwan table, bring in shades of pink through flowers, cutlery, napkins or even the table runner. Pair with neutral crockery and gold cutlery for an effortlessly chic vibe. It’s a fresh departure from the usual marigold-orange palette, but still festive enough for the occasion.

Terracotta + Banana Leaves = Winner!

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For the ultimate traditional Maharashtrian feel, skip the plates entirely and serve your Kelwan feast on banana leaves. If that is too much, take a cue from this table setting where they lined terracotta plates with banana leaves. Pair this with terracotta tumblers, bowls, and rustic clay décor pieces. It’s eco-friendly, budget-conscious and absolutely bursting with nostalgic charm.

Play With Heights

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Take a cue from this tablescape and play with heights - your centerpieces, your napkin holders, glasses - different heights give it a different look. And add a pop of colour to it!

WMG Tip - Don’t forget little personal touches - handwritten place cards, tiny bowls of mukhwas or even mini jars of homemade chutney as take-home favours can make your Kelwan table even more memorable.

Whether you go full traditional or modern-chic, the goal is simple: make it warm, inviting and totally Instagrammable. Remember, the most important thing is to create a setting that feels personal, reflects your style for the couple, makes your guests feel loved and welcomed. Don't be afraid to mix and match elements from these ideas to create something truly unique. After all, if there’s anything Maharashtrian culture has mastered, it’s that a meal shared with loved ones tastes so much better.

ALSO READ: Marathi Lagna Patrika Format & Invitation Templates