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Indian weddings have long been a spectacle of colours, culture, and tradition, with an unmistakable aura of grandeur. What was once a family affair has transformed into a multi-billion dollar industry, captivating not just the hearts of Indian families but also the global market. In this article, we will explore the trends shaping the modern Indian wedding industry, particularly in terms of budgeting and extravagance, while also delving into the statistics and reports that highlight its economic significance.The Scale of the Indian Wedding IndustryIndia%u2019s wedding industry is estimated to be worth approximately $50 billion in 2023, with projections suggesting steady growth in the coming years. According to a report by KPMG (2018), the industry is expected to touch $70 billion by 2025, driven by both increasing disposable incomes and the growing number of weddings being held annually. The wedding market in India is not only large in scale but also diversely distributed across regions, income groups, and traditions, making it a dynamic and complex sector.Budgeting: The Changing DynamicsIn the past, Indian weddings were often modest affairs, centered on intimate rituals and family celebrations. However, in recent years, the scale of spending has risen dramatically, and so have the expectations, as per a report by The Wedding Brigade, the average cost of an Indian wedding has increased by approximately 25% over the last five years, with urban weddings commanding an even higher price tag.One of the major factors influencing wedding budgets today is the preference for lavish celebrations. In metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, weddings are becoming synonymous with grandeur. This shift is not only a reflection of changing social dynamics but also an economic transformation, where status, luxury, and global exposure play significant roles.Key Components of Wedding Budgets:1. Venue and Decor: Often one of the most significant portions of the wedding budget, venue selection and decor have seen a massive shift. The cost of booking five-star venues or luxury banquet halls has escalated, contributing to a rise in the overall wedding costs. For example, in Mumbai, an upscale wedding venue can cost anywhere between %u20b910 lakhs to %u20b91 crore, depending on the scale and services provided.2. Catering and Food: Indian weddings are incomplete without elaborate spreads, and food is a critical area where money is spent. The cost of catering has been rising due to the trend of international cuisine, multiple-course meals, and food stalls. On average, catering alone can account for 20-30% of the wedding budget.3. Wedding Apparel and Jewelry: Traditionally, the bride and groom would opt for modest clothing and jewelry, but nowadays, the bridal attire has become a major point of focus. Luxury brands, designers, and bespoke creations are a part of the bridal shopping list. According to a Times of India article (2022), Indian families now spend an average of %u20b910-15 lakh on bridal apparel and jewelry.4. Entertainment and Photography: A growing demand for high-quality photography, cinematography, and entertainment services has led to significant spending in this category. The trend of hiring professional photographers, videographers, and live performers can push wedding budgets to new heights, with costs ranging from %u20b95 lakh to %u20b950 lakh or more.5. Wedding Planner Fees: The rise of wedding planners has introduced a level of professionalism in the Indian wedding industry. Wedding planners today can charge anywhere between %u20b92-15 lakh, depending on the complexity of the event.Trends Driving Wedding Grandeur1. Destination Weddings: One of the most notable trends in the Indian wedding industry is the rise of destination weddings. Popular locations such as Udaipur, Goa, and Jaipur have become synonymous with high-budget, luxury weddings. According to a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) report, the destination wedding market in India is valued at over %u20b91,000 crore and is expected to grow by 25% annually.Families are opting for destination weddings not only for The billion dollar industry of Indian weddings: Trends in budgeting and grandeurBy Dr. Niraalee Shah, MD, Dr. Niraalee Shah Travel Design Pvt LtdHOSPITALITY BIZ n FEBRUARY, 2025WWW.HOSPITALITYBIZINDIA.COM20 EXPERT SPEAK