How Traditional Hindu Weddings Are Embracing Eco-Friendly Practice

If you’ve ever attended an Indian weddings, you know one thing for sure- it’s a grand affair where ‘the more, the merrier’ is taken quite literally. Huge gatherings, mouth-watering feasts, elaborate rituals spanning multiple days, lavish decorations – the grandeur is a sight to see, and an experience to cherish.

But this grand spectacle often comes with one rather large downside—its effect on the environment. After all, behind all the glitz and glamour lie countless pieces of single-use plastics, wasted food, and a massive carbon footprint. But here’s the good news – these dreamy weddings are taking a greener turn and did I mention that they’re doing it with style?

Riding The Wave of Green

In recent years, climate change has climbed to the top of the global agenda and it’s not just governments and corporations that are rolling up their sleeves. Even we, as individuals, are becoming increasingly conscious of our everyday decisions, from the coffee we order to the way we travel. Now, this newfound consciousness is pushing its way into our celebrations, leading to weddings that are just as beautiful, but quite a bit green, and no, it’s not just about the colour.

Tradition Meets Sustainability

Contrary to what most people believe, our wonderful, time-honoured traditions aren’t roadblocks on the path to sustainability. They can beautifully coexist, and Hindu weddings are perfect examples of this.

• Invitations to the Digital Way

Considering the grandeur of a typical Indian wedding, one would expect the Hindu Wedding Cards to be equally elaborate. While that was the trend till a couple of years back, today, more and more couples are choosing to go digital. It’s simple, cost-effective, and saves tons of paper, and the best part is – you can’t misplace an e-invite! Plus, for folks who love the touch and feel of a physical invitation, fear not, because we’ve got some good old recycled paper to the rescue! Even cooler? Plantable cards that you can sow and grow into a plant! Now that’s an invitation that keeps on giving!

• Nature as the Venue

Who needs a fancy hall when you’ve got the great outdoors? Whether it’s a sunlit beach, a lush garden, or a rustic farm, outdoor venues offer the perfect blend of beauty and sustainability. With natural lighting and ventilation at your disposal, you save significantly on energy. Factor in daytime ceremonies, and you’re all set for a fabulous, eco-friendly wedding!

• Decor We Can Root For

Extravagant decorations are slowly taking the backseat, making way for simpler, eco-friendly choices. Ditch the plastic and synthetic materials for some earthy, biodegradable ones – think locally sourced flowers, wood, bamboo, and maybe even clay. Add to that the subtle charm of energy-efficient LED lights, and you’ve got eco-chic at its finest!

• Feasting with Mother Earth in Mind

It’s no secret that a Hindu weddings food is its highlight. But in a world where climate change is fast becoming a reality, indulgence needs to come without guilt. Enter wedding menus that not just cater to our taste buds, but also to Mother Earth. More weddings are serving plant-based, organic food made from local produce. With this simple move, they’re reducing food miles and thereby, their carbon footprints.

• Earth-Friendly Wedding Favours

No Indian wedding is complete without the customary return of wedding gifts. But that’s no reason to stick to the same old trinkets. Many couples are now opting for eco-friendly favours like plant saplings. Imagine – a living, growing memory of the time you celebrated love and respect for each other and the planet.

Every Green Step Counts

Going green for your big day may seem tricky at first glance. But take it from me – building an eco-friendly wedding just takes baby steps! Even tiny tweaks can shrink your footprint while keeping the fun flowing. Start simple by mixing up a plant-powered bachelor/bachelorette bite. Swap those energy-guzzling bulbs for efficient LEDs to brighten up your venue. And donate leftover grub to neighbours in need rather than tossing taste.

Every green pick – big or small – adds up to a real impact. And when we come together through thoughtful choices, we empower both ourselves and our communities. We paint a picture of a brighter future that the next generation will thank us for! Here’s the thing – an eco-approach makes feel-good moments feel even better! And get this – the green wedding trend doesn’t just tread lightly today. It paves the way for the happiest of endings for couples to come.

So remember – your calls carry weight, with the power to balance tradition and responsibility with heapings of love and respect. Why not use that power to throw a heart-quaking, fun-shaking green wedding? Celebrate your love and give back to the world you’ll build your life in!