A sweeping cultural reform is underway in Uttarakhand, where multiple villages across the Jaunsar-Bawar and Chakrata regions have jointly decided to eliminate extravagant wedding practices. The communities have approved a series of restrictions that outlaw costly rituals, liquor consumption and the serving of fast food, with a heavy Rs 1 lakh fine for any household that breaks the rules.
Collective Action to Reduce Social Pressure
The decision did not emerge from one meeting alone; it followed weeks of discussion among gram panchayat representatives worried about families competing through showy celebrations. Villagers from Dau, Doha, Chutou, Bajau, Ghingo, Kaitri and several others agreed that modern trends were financially draining. Locals admitted that weddings had become less about culture and more about keeping up with others a pressure many families could no longer bear.
What the Communities Have Outlawed
During a major gathering held in Doha village and led by community head Rajendra Singh Tomar, participants unanimously resolved to remove fast food and liquor from all ceremonies. A senior elder clarified the new rule plainly, “If anyone dares to treat guests with items like ‘chowmein’, ‘momos’, ‘tikkis’, pizza, or pasta, they will face a penalty of Rs 1 Lakh.”
The ban applies to weddings, festivals and any gatherings where food is served. Alcohol including beer has also been completely forbidden.
Return to Local Food and Traditional Music
Under the revised guidelines, families must serve local Garhwali dishes prepared from staples such as mandua and jhingora. Villagers say the focus is not only on cutting costs but also on reinforcing the region’s identity. Loud DJ systems and alcohol-driven celebrations will be replaced with folk songs, traditional performances and instruments that once defined hill weddings.
Revised Gift Customs for Bride and Groom
Another major shift concerns marriage gifts. Instead of expensive items like silver tokens, dry fruits or elaborate offerings, the permitted exchange is limited to rice, flour and goat meat. Elders said the earlier habit of gifting valuable items had turned into a burden that many families struggled to meet. The new rule aims to reduce expectations and prevent anyone from feeling obliged to overspend.
Rules on Women’s Jewellery Expanded
The villages also adopted a jewellery restriction first introduced in October in a different part of Jaunsar-Bawar. Women attending functions may now wear only three pieces: a Phulli, Jhumki/Tungul, and Kandudi or Mangalsutra. Elders explained that the trend of wearing heavier gold ornaments had led families into unnecessary expenditure, especially during marriage seasons.
Support and Enforcement from Within the Community
Rather than facing resistance, the resolutions have been widely accepted. A council insider noted, “People are actually happier with these decisions,” highlighting a shared belief that simpler weddings reduce stress. Residents have even agreed not to participate in ceremonies that ignore the new rules, effectively turning community unity into a monitoring system.
Other Areas Begin Adopting Similar Rules
This cultural shift has already spread beyond the Khat Saili belt. Villages in Uttarkashi’s Koti Thakral and Koti Banal have banned DJ music and alcohol, opting for folk-based celebrations instead. Meanwhile, several Chakrata villages have also moved away from expensive customs, arguing that showiness was distancing the younger generation from their roots.
A Regional Push Toward Modest, Tradition-Focused Weddings
Across these regions, the message is consistent: weddings should emphasise tradition and togetherness, not financial strain. By putting strict limits on what families can serve or gift, the communities hope to create celebrations that are affordable, culturally grounded and free from competitive pressure.
