Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken out against Indians holding destination weddings abroad, citing the significant expenditure of foreign currency involved.
At an event in Gujarat, Modi joked that he no longer receives invitations to such weddings, as people have stopped sending them due to the trend of holding weddings overseas.
He urged Indians to consider the impact of their spending on the country's foreign exchange reserves, which have been affected by global uncertainties, including the US-Iran war and the disruption of global supply chains.
Modi has repeatedly called on affluent Indians to avoid hosting weddings abroad and has introduced a 'Wed in India' initiative to promote India as a world-class wedding destination.
His appeal for austerity has drawn criticism, however, with some pointing out the contrast between his calls for fuel conservation and his own schedule, which includes frequent roadshows.
