Great Indian Wedding 2.0: Higher expenses mark the big day for couples

Indians aren't just getting married—they're orchestrating grand spectacles. Picture extravagant private jets whisking couples to remote destinations, towering décor, regal invites, global celebrities serenading guests, designer attire, and gourmet menus. For this opulence and grandeur, families are shelling out money like never before. The India's wedding industry is valued at an astounding ₹10 lakh crore ($130 billion), according to a recent report, just behind that of China ($170 billion).

30-40%
Hike in enquiries for luxury weddings
75%
Enquiries about luxurious locations
Rs 30 lakh-Rs 50 crore
Approx budget for luxury destination weddings
(As shared by multiple wedding planners)
Rs 10 lakh crore
Valuation of the Indian wedding industry
No 2
The standing of the Indian wedding industry in terms of expenditure. Food and grocery sales take the top spot
80 lakh-1 crore
The number of weddings in India annually
On average, Indians invest twice the amount in weddings than they do on education
(Source: A report by brokerage firm Jefferies)


Sky’s the limit for spends
From modest affairs costing around Rs 12 lakh, to extravagant budgets rivalling those of Bollywood weddings, Indian weddings span a vast spectrum. “Saving for their kids’ weddings is something every parent has been doing since ages. It’s just that in the last few years, weddings have changed a lot. Now, sky’s the limit when it comes to luxury weddings which cost upwards of Rs 3 crore,” explains Darshan Shroff, partner, Momente Weddings. While Indians invest double in weddings compared to education, in the US, this number is the opposite, with weddings consuming half the budget allocated to education.


Guests’ preferences dictate the decor budget
Apart from expenses on jewellery, apparel, catering, and event management, decor is stated as an underrated aspect of weddings. Himish Agarwal, CEO of Konark Events, explains “For example, some communities favour a grand experience overall, while others prioritise top-tier entertainment. Some guests want to see renowned artistes, skilled anchors, talented performers, photographers, and makeup artists at the wedding. International guests at destination weddings in India expect superb management and professional services. All these factors dictate the decor and event expenses of a wedding.”

Minimal weddings not out of the picture
While extravagant weddings hog the limelight, people from the wedding industry share that a lot of young couples also prefer smaller, more intimate affairs. “These naturally cost a lot less, ranging from Rs7-15 lakh at the most. Yet, they can be fantastic experiences, especially because they are far more personal,” shares Smriti Ahuja, co-owner of Circle Goa, a boutique hotel.

Top wedding destinations: Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Karnataka

The wedding budget breakup
52%: Jewellery
20%: Catering
10%: Events
10%: Clothing
8%: Photography and videos
(Approx numbers)