The Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit 2023 - Cultural and Business Ties

The first-ever Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit 2023 took place on 3-4 November at The Soaltee in Kathmandu, brilliantly combining cultural heritage and wedding innovation. Set against the stunning backdrop of Nepal, this 2-day event provided a glimpse into the future of weddings, with over 200 top industry leaders participating and furthering cultural connections and business ties between India and Nepal.

The summit kicked off with an opening ceremony led by Maneesh Srivastava, President of the Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit, who discussed the objectives of the initiative and the vision to establish Nepal as a wedding destination.

Srivastava eloquently expressed, "The Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit celebrates the union of hearts and traditions across two ancient cultures. Together, we create a tapestry of love, respect, and unity which reinforces the bonds that have withstood the test of time. May this summit serve as a beacon of hope for fostering harmony and prosperity between our nations."

Attendees also enjoyed knowledge-sharing sessions, cultural entertainment, and networking opportunities along with an Expo featuring more than 20 exhibitors from the hotel, venue, supplier, and vendor industries.

Dr. Dhananjay Regmi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, explained during the summit how positioning Nepal as an ideal wedding destination carries numerous economic benefits, particularly considering the growing trend of destination weddings. Additionally, he emphasized how this event plays a key role in jumpstarting wedding tourism in Nepal by suggesting necessary changes to rules and regulations to ease cross-country weddings.

Secretary of Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit and ex-director of The Bull Event Management Nepal Pvt Ltd., Priyanka A. Jalan said: “The Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit exemplifies our shared values and aspirations that bind our countries together. With dedication and determination, let this summit act as a catalyst drawing countless souls from around the world to partake in this celebration of love and unity.”

Samit Garg, President of EEMA, expressed that Nepal holds great promise as a wedding destination for Indians due to its stunning natural beauty, social and cultural proximity, and open border. He too wished success to this pathbreaking initiative.

Sudan Kirati, Tourism Minister of Nepal, added: "Love transcends borders; it serves as a bridge that connects our two nations. The Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit rejoices in the fusion of cultures and the blending of hearts, forging memories that cross boundaries."

During the second day of the summit, 'Wedding Affair', an Indian magazine covering various wedding aspects, launched its Nepali edition at the picturesque Chandragiri Hills for all attendees to enjoy.

On this occasion, Rajnish Rathi, Publisher/ Editor of Wedding Affair Magazine said: “Post-COVID-19, people have realized the importance of celebrating every moment of life. Weddings in India have always been grand events. Now more than ever before, brides, grooms, and their families desire large-scale wedding celebrations. People are exploring new destinations for their nuptials. Nepal presents a mutual business opportunity for both countries. Many wealthy Indians can bring significant business to Nepal's hotels and hospitality sector. As Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey, and Europe maintain popularity as wedding destinations, Nepal offers an affordable alternative with immense growth potential.”

Pooja Srivastava, Director of Bull Group enthused: "Throughout the summit, we've curated cultural showcases highlighting the unique wedding traditions, rituals, and attire from India and Nepal. I am extremely excited for the next edition."

Upon concluding the event, the convener, Mahavir Radha Jangra, eloquently expressed that the "Harmony in Love, Unity in Cultures: The Indo-Nepal Wedding Summit is devoted to nurturing lasting connections."