"Fake weddings" are trending inIndia, allowing Gen Z to enjoy luxury wedding-style parties without the associated pressures. These ticketed events offer a fun, stress-free experience reminiscent of traditional weddings, attracting young people nationwide.
The Rise of Faux Indian Weddings: Gen Z's Favorite Celebration Trend
The Rise of Faux Indian Weddings: Gen Z's Favorite Celebration Trend
Young Indians are enjoying lavish fake wedding parties that capture the essence of traditional ceremonies without the obligations, reshaping the landscape of celebrations across major cities.
In recent weeks, a quirky trend has captivated the youth of India: fake weddings. Imagine all the splendor of a classic Indian wedding—the enchanting lights, extravagant attire, and joyful celebrations—without the actual couple exchanging vows. These ticketed events, organized by hotels and clubs in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, are designed for pure enjoyment and allow attendees to immerse themselves in the festivity without any of the stress or responsibilities typically linked to a real marriage.
Such curated events appeal particularly to young people seeking a unique night out with friends. The experience mimics traditional Indian ceremonies while stripping away the associated familial pressure. A recent fake sangeet event in Delhi brought together attendees dressed in resplendent saris and customized kurtas, showcasing the energy and vibrancy of a real wedding party. According to first-timer Shivangi Sareen, attending such an event was liberating. "At family weddings, there's so much pressure... Here, it’s all about having fun with friends," she remarked.
Ticket prices range from 1,500 rupees ($17) to upwards of 15,000 rupees, depending on the venue and offerings. Restaurateur Sharad Madan, who recently hosted a fake wedding, highlighted that novelty is crucial for attracting patrons in the hospitality industry, aiming for both engagement and profitability through such unique experiences.
Kaushal Chanani, co-founder of event company 8Club, noted the inspiration behind these gatherings comes from the Indian diaspora living abroad who enjoy culturally themed gatherings. The popularity of these events has sparked interest from other cities like Jaipur, Kolkata, and Lucknow, reflecting a new wave of celebration that resonates with Gen Z.
However, not every event sticks to a traditional format. Some organizers are experimenting with alcohol-free celebrations, focusing on activities and games that reflect the spirit of Indian weddings without relying on alcohol. Anurag Pandey of Third Place elaborated on this concept, emphasizing the inclusivity and diversity of such events.
The growing trend signifies a hunger for communal celebrations devoid of the stress that authentic weddings often entail. Social commentator Santosh Desai noted that fake weddings resonate with young individuals longing for an excuse to celebrate, transforming the inclusive wedding setup into a platform for gatherings.
Still, some skeptics raise concerns regarding the potential trivialization of real Indian weddings. Attendee Srishti Sharma shared her experience, citing unmet expectations regarding venue ambiance and food options, while others like Vidhi Kapoor advocate for embracing the trend as a fun alternative rather than fear it might undermine traditions.
With India’s wedding industry valued at approximately $130 billion and primarily active during the cooler months, the rise of fake weddings presents an innovative solution to fill gaps in the event calendar, catering to a demographic eager for novel experiences. Event planner Vijay Arora observed the fad's enduring potential to carve out a niche market, ultimately reflecting the cultural evolution surrounding celebration norms in contemporary India.
