Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Apr 8: Ongoing wars and rising tensions in Middle Eastern countries have had a serious impact on weddings and auspicious functions in Tulunadu.

Many families in the region depend on members working in the Middle East. In the current situation, the conflict has led to postponement, simplification, and in some cases cancellation of weddings. In the past one month alone, more than 15 weddings scheduled in the district have been postponed due to the war. Notably, a majority of these weddings belong to the Christian community.

One of the main reasons for postponement is the inability of grooms working in the Middle East to return to India on time. Disruptions in flight services and visa-related issues have made travel difficult. In addition, many families are unwilling to conduct weddings in the absence of key members who are abroad.

The steep rise in air ticket prices has also become a major burden for ordinary families. There is also uncertainty among those working abroad about whether they will be able to return if they travel to India for weddings. Some fear losing their jobs if they are unable to go back after taking leave. As a result, many are prioritising job security over attending family functions. Delays and reductions in salaries in certain sectors have further made it difficult to manage wedding expenses.

This uncertainty has not only affected weddings but also celebrations such as birthdays and wedding anniversaries.

Weddings are a major economic activity, and their postponement or scaling down has impacted several sectors. Decoration businesses are witnessing reduced demand for grand themes and setups, leading to loss of income. Lower use of flowers has affected florists. Smaller events have reduced opportunities for emcees, while DJs and music bands are facing a shortage of work as musical programmes are being dropped.

Shortage and rising prices of cooking gas cylinders, along with a reduced number of guests, have led to a decline in catering services. In photography and videography, clients are opting for smaller packages instead of elaborate ones. Makeup artists and event planners are also seeing reduced demand, as many families are forced to opt for simpler ceremonies.

In Tulunadu, weddings are not just rituals but a symbol of family unity, celebration, and culture. However, the current situation has led to weddings being conducted without key family members, a sense of anxiety even during joyful occasions, and a noticeable decline in the scale of celebrations.

Overall, the impact of Middle East conflicts is not limited to that region but has reached households in Tulunadu, casting a shadow over auspicious events like weddings. There is a collective hope that peace will return soon and restore the vibrancy of wedding celebrations.

VJ Dixon, a noted anchor, said that April and May are peak wedding months for the Christian community, but eight wedding events he was scheduled to anchor have been postponed this time due to the ongoing crisis.