With dazzling lights, vibrant outfits, and a whirl of Bollywood music, the idea of a grand Indian wedding typically evokes images of celebration and emotion. However, a new trend is emerging in urban India—fake weddings that exclude the formal nuptials, allowing attendees to jump straight into the festivities.
Gen Z is embracing these ticketed events, typically organized by hotels and clubs, which promise a full wedding experience minus the stress and obligations that come with actual marriages. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are witnessing the rise of these fake weddings, where young friends gather to relish wedding-like parties that are designed exclusively for entertainment.
Recently in Delhi, a meticulously planned "fake sangeet," the pre-wedding celebration filled with music and dance, drew a diverse crowd. Attendees donned ethnic attire and enjoyed a lively ambiance complete with traditional dhol drumming, tequila-infused snacks, and a spirited dance floor atmosphere. Shivangi Sareen, a first-time attendee, noted the ease of enjoying oneself without the pressure that accompanies real family weddings, finding the experience both fun and liberating.
Tickets for these events range from nearly 1,500 rupees ($17) to upwards of 15,000 rupees, depending on the scale and location, with many willing to indulge regularly given the memorable experiences. Restaurant owner Sharad Madan mentions that novelty has become crucial in the hospitality industry, indicating that these events not only engage patrons but also highlight the demand for unique experiences.
The fake wedding concept has roots in the Indian diaspora, where such events became a means of cultural expression and communal celebration. The overwhelming success of a recent event in Bengaluru, which attracted around 2,000 participants, led to inquiries for similar events across other Indian cities, demonstrating a growing trend with expansive potential.
Yet, these gatherings can vary significantly in theme and execution. Some, like Third Place's sober sangeet, focus on a more traditional celebration without alcohol, incorporating games and activities that reflect genuine wedding customs. This variation shows that while the concept is playful, it can also pay homage to cultural traditions in an innovative format.
However, the trend has not been without criticism. Concerns about trivializing genuine wedding customs arise, but many participants, such as Vidhi Kapoor, argue that these events should be viewed purely as a lighthearted celebration rather than an affront to tradition.
As the trend evolves, the wedding industry in India, valued at around $130 billion, could see a shift with the rise of these fake weddings. Though initially considered a novelty, industry experts believe that as more young people seek reasons to celebrate, fake weddings could solidify their place in the social calendar, offering a vibrant outlet that addresses both the desire for party-like festivities and the pressures associated with real-life celebrations.
Gen Z is embracing these ticketed events, typically organized by hotels and clubs, which promise a full wedding experience minus the stress and obligations that come with actual marriages. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are witnessing the rise of these fake weddings, where young friends gather to relish wedding-like parties that are designed exclusively for entertainment.
Recently in Delhi, a meticulously planned "fake sangeet," the pre-wedding celebration filled with music and dance, drew a diverse crowd. Attendees donned ethnic attire and enjoyed a lively ambiance complete with traditional dhol drumming, tequila-infused snacks, and a spirited dance floor atmosphere. Shivangi Sareen, a first-time attendee, noted the ease of enjoying oneself without the pressure that accompanies real family weddings, finding the experience both fun and liberating.
Tickets for these events range from nearly 1,500 rupees ($17) to upwards of 15,000 rupees, depending on the scale and location, with many willing to indulge regularly given the memorable experiences. Restaurant owner Sharad Madan mentions that novelty has become crucial in the hospitality industry, indicating that these events not only engage patrons but also highlight the demand for unique experiences.
The fake wedding concept has roots in the Indian diaspora, where such events became a means of cultural expression and communal celebration. The overwhelming success of a recent event in Bengaluru, which attracted around 2,000 participants, led to inquiries for similar events across other Indian cities, demonstrating a growing trend with expansive potential.
Yet, these gatherings can vary significantly in theme and execution. Some, like Third Place's sober sangeet, focus on a more traditional celebration without alcohol, incorporating games and activities that reflect genuine wedding customs. This variation shows that while the concept is playful, it can also pay homage to cultural traditions in an innovative format.
However, the trend has not been without criticism. Concerns about trivializing genuine wedding customs arise, but many participants, such as Vidhi Kapoor, argue that these events should be viewed purely as a lighthearted celebration rather than an affront to tradition.
As the trend evolves, the wedding industry in India, valued at around $130 billion, could see a shift with the rise of these fake weddings. Though initially considered a novelty, industry experts believe that as more young people seek reasons to celebrate, fake weddings could solidify their place in the social calendar, offering a vibrant outlet that addresses both the desire for party-like festivities and the pressures associated with real-life celebrations.
