The institution of marriage in India is increasingly becoming a site of conspicuous consumption and commodification. Critically examine the impact of this commercialisation on social equity and gender relations. (Answer in 250 words)

Marriage as site of conspicuous consumption and commodification:

Destination Marriages (e.g. in Udaipur, palaces and resorts). Marriage of influencers and actors live broadcast on social media, used in movies as scenes.

Positive impact of such trend:

Negative Impact of such trend:

Although marriage industry generates revenue and employment, there is need of local messaging and dialogue to protect the sanctity of marriage and promote simple marriages to reduce burden on weaker section.

Negative impacts continued: 2) Exhibit social inequality and huge income disparity; 3) Rise of dowry - Marriage expenses borne by girl family, indirect dowry system; 4) Marriage as a contract - commodification turned marriage into a social contract for living together instead of emotional bond; 5) Power projection - Marriages used by dominant caste as protection of their status and wealth in some rural areas. Although marriage industry generates revenue and employment, there is need of local messaging and dialogue to protect sanctity of marriage and promote simple marriages to reduce burden on weaker sections.