Copyright thehindubusinessline
The wedding season is likely to drive business of ₹6.5 lakh crore during the upcoming season with the auspicious period kick-starting from November 1, according to a report released by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), through its research arm CAIT Research & Trade Development Society (CRTDS). It estimates that between November 1 and December 14, an estimated 46 lakh weddings will be held. In comparison, in 2024, 48 lakh weddings took place with an expenditure of ₹5.9 lakh crore, whereas in 2023, 38 lakh weddings solemnised with ₹4.74 lakh crore and in 2022, 32 lakh weddings took place with ₹3.75 lakh crore expenditure. CAIT Secretary General & Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal said that India’s wedding economy continues to be one of the strongest pillars of domestic trade, combining tradition, modernity and self-reliance. He said that while the number of weddings is nearly similar to last year, spending per wedding has increased significantly, reflecting higher disposable incomes, inflation in precious metals and rising consumer confidence after a record-breaking festive season. “Out of the ₹6.5 lakh crore wedding expenditure, it is estimated that the share of apparel and sarees will be at 10 per cent, jewellery - 15 per cent, Electronics & Electricals - 5 per cent, Dry fruit and Sweets - 5 per cent, Grocery & Vegetables - 5 per cent, Gift items - 4 per cent, Other goods - 6 per cent, whereas in services segment Event management 5 per cent, catering - 10 per cent, photography & videography - 2 per cent, travel & hospitality - 3 per cent, floral decoration - 4 per cent, Musical groups - 3 per cent, Light & Sound - 3 per cent and other services - 3 per cent share will be taken by each sector,” he added. CAIT’s “Vocal for Local Weddings” campaign has substantially reduced the presence of imported goods such as Chinese lighting, artificial décor and gift accessories. Traditional artisans, jewellers and textile producers are witnessing a surge in orders, symbolising the strength of India’s local manufacturing and craftsmanship. Generating jobs The upcoming wedding season is expected to generate over one crore temporary and part-time jobs, directly benefiting decorators, caterers, florists, artists, transporters and hospitality staff. MSMEs in textiles, jewellery, handicrafts, packaging and logistics will gain substantial seasonal momentum, reinforcing their crucial role in India’s “Sanatan Economy”, the report added. The report noted that nearly 1-2 per cent of wedding budgets are now allocated to digital content creation and social media coverage. “Online invitation platforms, AI-based planning tools are experiencing 20-25 per cent growth in wedding-related sales. Families increasingly prefer Indian destinations over international venues, reflecting pride in India’s culture and economy,” the report added. “CAIT estimates that this 45-day wedding season will contribute approximately ₹75,000 crore to government tax revenues (GST and others). The Indian wedding economy remains one of the largest unorganised yet impactful sectors, driving both rural and urban consumption,” Khandelwal added. Published on October 30, 2025
