Having decided at just 15 years old that hospitality was her calling, Ragini Congo’s first job after graduating was with Scottish company Apex Hotels, where she worked for four years.
When looking for a job back in India, Ragini was drawn to Shangri-La because of its legendary reputation. Now with the group for eight years, she launched ‘Bandhan by Shangri-La’ in October 24 at the newly renovated ballroom of Shangri-La Eros New Delhi. Designed to create bespoke, culturally-rich destination wedding celebrations for Indian couples, Ragini ensures each wedding reflects the couple’s unique love story and cultural heritage. Through crafting menus with the hotels’ world-class chefs, and planning intricate decor and entertainment, every detail is thoughtfully designed to make the union of two souls as memorable as possible, from the mehndi to the sangeet.
Excerpts from our interview:
You come from a remote part of Northeast India and were the first in your family to study abroad. How did those early experiences shape your perspective on hospitality and global cultures?
Growing up in a remote region of Northeast India, I was immersed in a tapestry of rich traditions and close-knit community values. Being the first in my family to study abroad, I was exposed to diverse cultures and perspectives, which broadened my understanding of global hospitality. This unique blend of deep-rooted cultural heritage and international exposure has instilled in me a profound appreciation for personalized service and cultural sensitivity, essential elements in creating memorable guest experiences.
What drew you to the world of hospitality at such a young age – and what has kept you passionate about it through the years?
From a young age, I was captivated by the joy of bringing people together and creating meaningful experiences. Hospitality, to me, is the art of making someone feel truly seen and valued. Over the years, witnessing the transformative power of genuine service and the smiles it brings has continually fuelled my passion. Each interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact, and that keeps me inspired every day.
Tell us about your career journey – what brought you to Shangri-La, and how has the group shaped your evolution as a sales and events leader?
My journey began with a degree in tourism and hospitality from Edinburgh Napier University, followed by a formative stint with Apex Hotels in Scotland. Upon returning to India, Shangri-La’s reputation for heartfelt service resonated deeply with me. Over the past eight years, the group has provided a nurturing environment that champions innovation and cultural authenticity. This has allowed me to evolve into a leader who values both strategic vision and the nuances of personalized guest experiences.
What inspired the creation of Bandhan by Shangri-La? Was there a particular moment or insight that sparked the idea?
The inception of Bandhan was driven by a desire to cater to Indian couples seeking culturally resonant destination weddings. Recognizing a gap in the market for luxury weddings that honour Indian traditions abroad, we envisioned Bandhan as a bridge between cultural authenticity and global elegance. The idea crystallized during a conversation with a couple struggling to find a venue that could seamlessly blend their heritage with a destination setting.
How do you work with couples and families to design personalized, culturally rooted wedding celebrations?
Our approach is deeply collaborative. We begin by understanding the couple’s story, traditions, and vision. From there, we curate every detail—from rituals and cuisine to décor and entertainment—to reflect their unique journey. By involving families in the planning process and respecting regional customs, we ensure each celebration is both personal and culturally authentic.
Which destinations currently offer Bandhan by Shangri-La, and how do they each bring something unique to a wedding celebration?
Bandhan by Shangri-La is a thoughtfully curated portfolio of wedding destinations, each designed to encapsulate the spirit of its locale while embracing the richness of Indian wedding traditions. From the regal charm of Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, which offers stately ballrooms and manicured lawns for traditional ceremonies in the heart of India’s capital, to the cosmopolitan flair of Shangri-La Bengaluru, where modern elegance meets vibrant city life, every property under Bandhan is tailored for distinct wedding experiences. For couples seeking coastal serenity, Shangri-La Hambantota in Sri Lanka is a tropical oasis spread across 58 hectares, featuring pristine beaches, an 18-hole golf course, and stunning outdoor venues ideal for peaceful beachside vows.
Venturing further, Shangri-La Al Husn and Barr Al Jissah in Oman provide dramatic Arabian coastal backdrops, framed by rugged mountains and the sea—perfect for couples looking for an exotic and luxurious celebration. Shangri-La Istanbul, set on the banks of the Bosphorus, blends European sophistication with Asian warmth, offering a rich cultural mix for multicultural unions. Meanwhile, Shangri-La Colombo exudes colonial charm paired with contemporary grandeur, making it a versatile venue for both intimate and elaborate events. And for those who dream of an island wedding, Shangri-La Le Touessrok in Mauritius delivers unmatched exclusivity with its turquoise lagoons and private island settings. Each destination in the Bandhan collection has been handpicked not just for its scenic beauty, but for its ability to transform weddings into immersive, deeply personal celebrations of love and culture.
What are the biggest trends in the Indian destination wedding space right now?
We’re observing a shift towards more intimate, personalized weddings that emphasize quality over quantity. Couples are seeking unique experiences, integrating local cultures of the destination, and prioritizing sustainability. There’s also a growing interest in offbeat locations that offer exclusivity and a sense of adventure.
As a bride-to-be yourself, how has this personal experience influenced your understanding of what couples go through – and what they truly want?
Planning my own wedding has been one of the most eye-opening and emotionally enriching journeys of my life. I’ve always worked closely with couples, helping them bring their dream celebrations to life – but walking in their shoes has changed everything. Suddenly, every decision feels more personal: Will my grandmother, parents or close ones feel comfortable at the venue? Is the menu inclusive enough for every palate? Will the mehndi ceremony feel intimate, even in a faraway setting? These are not just questions anymore; they’re lived experiences.
What this journey has truly taught me is that couples aren’t just looking for a picture-perfect wedding—they’re searching for peace of mind, for someone to genuinely understand the weight of emotions, traditions, and expectations they carry. That’s where Bandhan by Shangri-La becomes so much more than a service. We’re not just offering destinations; we’re offering trust, cultural sensitivity, and the luxury of feeling heard. Because now, more than ever, I understand how much it means to have someone who just gets it. And that’s exactly what I strive to be—for every couple who chooses to start their forever with us.
