In Pakistan, weddings have historically been occasions of pleasure and love; however, in recent years, the emphasis has shifted to extravagance, which has been spurred by influencers and social media. Although these extravagant nuptials may appear glamorous, they are accompanied by concealed expenses that have a detrimental impact on society, families, and the fundamental nature of marriage.
The desire to impress others and display affluence has been exacerbated by social media. Influencers and affluent families are now transforming nuptials into public spectacles by sharing images of high-profile guest lists, luxury décor, and designer attire. The emphasis has shifted from the celebration of love to the display of affluence. Subtly promoting a message of “look at how much we can afford,” influencers dissect every detail, establishing unrealistic expectations for the general public. The constant comparison has resulted in a significant amount of pressure on many individuals to replicate these elaborate celebrations, which frequently results in financial strain.
This culture of extravagance has had a profound impact on society, particularly on middle and lower-income families. In an effort to remain competitive, numerous families obtain loans or accumulate debt to finance extravagant nuptials. The event that was intended to be a source of joy has instead become a source of financial tension and burden. Rather than celebrating the union of two individuals, nuptials have become increasingly about the display of wealth, as the emphasis has shifted from family unity to materialism.
Islam advocates for weddings that are modest and accessible to all, irrespective of their social or economic status, by accentuating their simplicity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) favored uncomplicated weddings, asserting that the most advantageous marriages are those that incur the least financial burden. Nevertheless, the extravagant nuptials of the present day are in direct opposition to these lessons. The culture of dowry has also become more exaggerated, as families are compelled to provide extravagant gifts and elaborate arrangements, which exacerbates inequality and humiliation for those who are unable to afford them.
Weddings, which were previously straightforward affairs consisting solely of a nikah and walima, have evolved into a succession of events. Engagement ceremonies, bridal showers, dholkis, qawwali evenings, and theme-based mehndis have become the norm, resulting in unnecessary financial strain and stress. These additional events complicate what should be a straightforward celebration, causing families to be stretched emotionally and financially.
Influencers are instrumental in the promotion of extravagant nuptials. Their extravagant celebrations serve as models for others to emulate, frequently motivating individuals to exceed their financial constraints. Although they may contend that they are sharing their pleasure, their content establishes unrealistic standards, particularly for younger audiences, who begin to perceive materialism as the essence of a wedding, rather than the love and unity it symbolizes.
A Call for Change
It is time to revert to more straightforward, more significant nuptials. Rather than competing with the extravagance of others, families should concentrate on the pleasure of the union. Public figures and social media influencers can contribute to the transformation of the narrative by advocating for modest ceremonies and emphasizing the significance of family and love. We can guarantee that marriages remain joyful and accessible to all individuals, free from the financial burden, by adopting simplicity.
