Ash-Abhi sangeet ceremony takes place in Prateeksha

Mumbai, Apr 19 (UNI) After months of speculation of 'will they', 'won't they' finally the day arrived, as the sangeet ceremony of Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai got off to a glittering start at the Bachchan's residence 'Prateeksha' in Juhu.

The sangeet ceremony, which was supposed to be a close knit affair was attended by close Bachchan friends like Anil Ambani, Subroto Roy of Sahara, Manoj Desai, Rishi and Neetu Kapoor, Bollywood baddie Prem Chopra, Ajay Devgan, Priety Zinta, Kiron Kher with son Sikandar to name a few. Close friend Amar Singh was present at the venue since afternoon yesterday.

It has been said that Karan Johar and Shaimak Davar were going to perform for the sangeet.

According to sources 'Prateeksha' was chosen as the venue beacuse it has great sentimental value as Shweta and Abhishek grew up there and Shweta was married to Nikhil Nanda a few years ago at the same place.

Amid tight police security the guests were escorted into the Bachchan bungalow, while thousands of fans waited outside 'Prateeksha' to have a glimpse of their favourite stars.

Every time the gates opened people would throng to see what was going on inside. When megastar Amitabh Bachchan came out the crowds went into a frenzy. Police had a tough time controlling the crowds.

The sangeet ceremony, will be followed by the mehandi ceremony and the 'pheras' will take place on Friday. A beautiful 'doli' is prepared for the occasion for the bride.

UNI