Sumangali Kalyana Mantapa

This is Sumangali Kalyana Mantapa over in Nagarbhavi. We are situated at 82, 3rd Cross, which is very close to the National Law School. The area has changed a lot over the years with more buildings coming up, but we’ve stayed right here. Our main job is keeping the hall ready for whatever event is scheduled. Whether it’s a small gathering or a big wedding, the floor needs to be scrubbed and the lights need to be checked. We have a lot of space, but it’s all very simple. There aren't any modern decorations or glass walls. It’s just a solid, practical building. We spend a lot of time talking to the cooks who come in to use the kitchen area. They bring in huge pots and sacks of rice. The 3rd cross can get a bit tight when everyone arrives at once for a function. We usually have to stand outside and help guide the cars so they don't block the neighbor's gates. It’s a lot of repetitive work, like folding chairs and stacking them against the wall. We don't use any big marketing tricks. Most people find out about us because their neighbors had a function here before. It’s a local place for local people. When the hall is empty, it feels very big and quiet, but that doesn't happen very often during the wedding season. We just keep the doors open and make sure there is enough water.