Indian wedding boom continues with 41 pc surge in marriages
Couples embrace new elements in age-old rituals
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This surge in Indian weddings is expected to generate a staggering INR 6 trillion in revenue (Photo: pexels)
India is witnessing an unprecedented surge in weddings, with a 41 pc increase in ceremonies this year compared to 2023. As the wedding industry flourishes, couples are embracing new perspectives, redefining traditions and incorporating modern elements into age-old rituals.
India is gearing up for a wedding season like never before, with a 41 pc rise in weddings organised this year as compared to 2023. According to a report by Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), about 4.8 million weddings are scheduled just for November-December 2024.
This boom is expected to generate a staggering INR 6 trillion in revenue, with Delhi, alone potentially contributing a substantial INR 1.5 trillion to the wedding industry, reflecting the immense growth and significance of this booming sector.
Despite the growth in number of weddings and the total expenses, there is another trend that is catching up amongst the couples-to-be who, now more than ever are redefining the norms, with unique and fresh perspectives, bringing their own take to the beautiful age-old rituals and traditions.
Modern take on age-old traditions
Women are opting for pastel-coloured attires with minimal henna and makeup to adorn themselves for their special day (Photo: pexels)
Of late, social media platforms have been brimming with heartfelt stories and videos of couples bringing their own values and thoughts to the centuries old traditions associated with weddings and marriages.
From men applying sindoor (vermilion) during weddings to touching their partner’s feet as a gesture of respect, these practices, that go against age-old beliefs, have left a lasting impact on many.
Equally moving is the tradition of women bringing their own baraats, or wedding guests accompanying the bride, a beautiful shift that challenges conventions and celebrates love and equality in unique ways.
Women are also opting for pastel-coloured attires with minimal henna and makeup to adorn themselves for their special day, in contrast to traditional marriage look of heavy jewellery and an equally heavy makeup.
Couples are also increasingly opting for more intimate celebrations. Rather than hosting large-scale affairs with hundreds of guests, many are choosing to create smaller, more personal weddings that reflect their unique styles and preferences.
“I think Covid-19 pandemic really gave us a new perspective on the meaning of celebrations. Our wedding had just 50 guests and it was amazing. We got to interact with each person and actually enjoy with our near and dear ones,” Naman Puri, a Delhi resident, tells India & You.
This shift allows for deeper connections with loved ones, more meaningful experiences, and a less stressful planning process, making the celebration feel more like an authentic and memorable occasion.
Blending technology with customs
Like other aspects of modern life, weddings, too, have embraced technology, transforming traditional ceremonies into more personalised and connected experiences. Virtual guest books, for instance, allow guests to leave heartfelt messages from anywhere in the world, while ensuring their travel and other needs are seamlessly coordinated.
For those unable to attend in person, live transmissions allow loved ones to witness the ceremony from the comfort of their homes, bridging distances and keeping everyone involved in the special day.
The use of Virtual Reality (VR) has also begun to make its mark, offering couples immersive experiences that can be shared with their guests in innovative ways.
Meanwhile, 360° photography provides an entirely new perspective on the wedding, capturing every angle and moment in stunning detail. This immersive technology lets couples and guests relive the day from every vantage point, making memories even more vivid.
Saying yes to destination weddings
Udaipur in Rajasthan, often referred to as the ‘City of Lakes’, offers an enchanting backdrop for a fairytale wedding (Photo: MIG)
India is home to some of the most exotic, diverse and beautiful locations, some of which serve as a perfect backdrop for any wedding, which is why destination weddings have witnessed a surge in recent years. Couples prefer locations that resonate with their tastes and even blend local traditions including food and folk artists into their ceremonies.
From majestic mountain peaks to serene, breathtaking beaches, couples have a wide array of stunning locations to choose from to make their wedding ceremony truly unforgettable.
Some of the most sought-after destinations that have hosted unforgettable ceremonies include:
Udaipur in Rajasthan, often referred to as the ‘City of Lakes’, offers an enchanting backdrop for a fairytale wedding. With its stunning white palaces, historic architecture, and picturesque lakes, it provides a perfect setting for couples looking to tie the knot in a royal and romantic atmosphere.
In addition to Udaipur, many other cities in Rajasthan serve as a perfect destination for wedding ceremonies like Bikaner, Jaipur, and Jodhpur amongst others.
Another emerging wedding destination is Rishikesh, a spiritual and adventure hub in Uttarakhand. Known for its serene landscape and connection to the holy Ganga, Rishikesh has become a sought-after location for couples looking to blend their wedding ceremony with spirituality and adventure.
The majestic Himalayas have become an increasingly popular choice for couples and families seeking a more intimate and serene setting to celebrate their special day. Hill stations like Shimla, Nainital, and other picturesque mountain retreats offer the perfect backdrop for couples to exchange vows surrounded by breathtaking views and the warmth of their loved ones.
