Magnificent Mumbai


Photo Courtesy of Dave Ingraham

Bring Bollywood to your next event with colorful drapings, Indian art and motifs, and rich vibrant colors. Royal purples and gold fabrics adorn the tables and chairs, while bold pinks and oranges deck out the ceilings. Remember to include geometric designs and intricate patterns in the light and decor.



Distinctly Indian

Photo Courtesy of Maria Kay Anthony
Indian music and Bollywood scores are decidedly distinct. In fact, Bollywood movies without popular music rarely succeed. During dinner, consider using Indian musicians playing veena or sitars, like the one seen here.



Let's Dance
 




And just like the music, Bollywood has a unique dance style. If you're going to have a Bollywood themed event, choreographed dancers for your entertainment are a must. Later in the evening, invite your guests out onto the dance floor for Indian dance instruction.



Mango Lassi

Photo Courtesy of Vicky Wasik
Lassi is a traditional Indian drink and the bright mango color and flavors go perfectly with a Bollywood themed event.

Ingredients
For the Palm Sugar Syrup:
8 ounces (225g) palm sugar, grated or roughly chopped into 1/2-inch pieces

For the Lassi:
4 cups yogurt, not strained (32 ounces; 900g)
2 1/2 cups (590ml) buttermilk
2 1/2 cups (590ml) unsweetened Kesar mango purée
1/2 cup (115ml) palm sugar syrup
1 teaspoon (5g) kosher salt; for table salt, use about half as much by volume or the same weight
2 teaspoons (10ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 1/2 lime)

Directions

For the Palm Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine palm sugar with 1/2 cup (115ml) water. Over medium heat, simmer palm sugar and water mixture until sugar has just dissolved. Skim off any scum that may have floated to the surface of the syrup. Reserve 1/2 cup (115ml) syrup for the lassi; refrigerate the remainder for future use. The syrup will keep indefinitely.


For the Lassi: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, buttermilk, mango purée, palm sugar syrup, kosher salt, and lime juice. Serve immediately over ice. The lassi will keep in the refrigerator for 7 days.