As artists offer such services across major cities, the throwback to the pre-camera era is complete. In India, it is a throwback to thousands of years, when traditional folk-art forms such as Warli, Pattachitra and Madhubani recorded celebrations in art works.

Artist Pritesh Rangole, 27, usually begins set-up two hours before the bride and groom arrive, reviewing the light and planning which decor elements he wants to incorporate. It is often so busy once the ceremony begins that there is no time for food or even toilet breaks. Rangole says he has worked at 40 weddings since he started offering this service in August, for rates that start at ₹35,000 per event.

Today, most couples and their families get quite involved in the conceptualising of the wedding art, says lawyer-turned-artist Noor. Some want deceased relatives to be represented. Others want pets woven in. Some submit reference works collected off the internet.

Not all endings are happy. “Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, either the painting isn’t finished on time, or the clients are not happy with it. In such cases, I take their suggestions, go home, make the changes and finish it to their liking. After all, it is their big day and you want to do your best to make them happy,” says Keerthana Adepu, 23, an artist from Hyderabad.