On Delhi's northern edge, where the city loosens its grip and farmland runs toward the Yamuna, an acre of green opens up behind the gate. Date palms rise over clipped topiary, a long white bungalow sits low beneath its pitched roof, and the red front doors glow warmly against the hedges as evening settles in.

Inside, the mood is generous and sociable. A sweeping crimson-and-ivory sofa wraps around the living room, wide enough for the whole group to sink into at once, while music plays from the speakers and the big screen waits for a film night. Meals come together at the dining table beneath an ornate carved clock, with a chef on call to handle the cooking.