Uttarakhand Villages Ban Fast Food, DJs, and Expensive Gifts in Weddings; Violation Attracts ₹1 Lakh Fine

In a unique move to revive tradition and reduce social pressures, around two dozen villages in Uttarakhand’s Chakrata region have collectively banned fast food, DJs, and lavish gifts in weddings. Villagers have mandated that only traditional Garhwali meals made from local grains like mandua and jhangora be served. Violators face fines of up to ₹1 lakh imposed by the Gram Panchayat.

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Dehradun: Representatives from villages in the Jaunsar-Bawar region have unanimously implemented rules aimed at bringing weddings back to their cultural roots while alleviating financial burdens on families. The new regulations prohibit serving fast foods like chowmein and momos, as well as exchanging expensive gifts, during wedding celebrations.

Rajendra Tomar, head of the Doha village cluster, told Times of India that the display of wealth in weddings had created unnecessary social competition, pressuring families to overspend. Villages implementing these rules include Dau, Doha, Chutau, Bajau, Ghingo, and Kateri.

Under the new norms, only traditional Garhwali thalis prepared with locally grown grains will be served at wedding feasts. Expensive gifts and luxury items are also strictly prohibited.

Residents have welcomed the initiative. Karmu Pal from Kya Va village said, “We are happy that our local cuisine and culture are being promoted. The younger generation will remember where they come from.” Similar sentiments were echoed in Uttarkashi’s Naugaon area, where Koti Thakral and Koti Banal villages have also banned DJs and alcohol at celebrations. Traditional folk music and local instruments will now be compulsory at all events.

This initiative not only reinforces cultural identity but also aims to ease financial stress on families, promoting simpler, more meaningful celebrations across the region.