Marriage extravaganza
The Extravagance of Modern Weddings: A Social Evil in Disguise
In today’s society, weddings have evolved from being simple ceremonies of union to grand spectacles of opulence and excess. Recently, I witnessed a marriage conducted in a palatial hall, managed by a high-end event management company. By all indications, the bride's father might have spent over ten lakh rupees on the event. This made me reflect deeply on the growing trend of lavish weddings and the values they represent. In an age marked by uncertainty in married life and rising societal challenges, such extravagance appears not only unnecessary but also a troubling social evil.
The Burden of Social Expectations
Weddings are meant to celebrate love, companionship, and the beginning of a new life. However, societal expectations have transformed these intimate occasions into competitive displays of wealth. Families, particularly in India, often feel pressured to host grand events to uphold their social image. This pressure leads to excessive spending—sometimes even beyond one's means—simply to meet standards set by others.
Wasted Wealth Amidst Poverty
In a country where millions struggle for basic necessities, spending lakhs or even crores on a single-day event raises ethical concerns. That same money could fund education for underprivileged children, provide shelter for the homeless, or support medical aid for the needy. Redirecting resources from wasteful celebrations to meaningful causes can bring about real social change.
Marriages Built on Substance, Not Show
Ironically, the grandeur of a wedding has no bearing on the success of the marriage itself. In fact, many high-profile marriages crumble within a few years, despite the lavish ceremonies that marked their beginning. It is not the extravagance but the understanding, compatibility, and mutual respect between partners that sustains a marriage.
Simplicity as a Virtue
There is immense beauty in simplicity. A humble wedding conducted with sincerity and love often holds more significance than a grand affair. Low-profile weddings, when embraced by those who can afford extravagance, send a powerful message to society: that values, not vanity, define our lives.
Conclusion
Lavish weddings are often mistaken as symbols of status and joy, but in truth, they can perpetuate inequality, promote superficial values, and distract from the essence of marriage itself. As responsible citizens, it is time we re-evaluate our priorities. Instead of spending lavishly to impress others, let us adopt simplicity and use our resources to uplift the poor and downtrodden. By doing so, we honor not just the union of two individuals, but also our duty to humanity.