‘Wed in India’ Initiative Fuels The Rise Of NRI And Expat Destination Weddings In India

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Wed in India” initiative gains national momentum, India is witnessing a meaningful shift in destination wedding preferences—particularly among NRIs, expats, and internationally based families. Once inclined to celebrate abroad, many couples are now choosing to return to India, seeking venues that blend global standards with cultural authenticity. Two destinations reflecting this shift are Radisson Blu Greater Noida and Juna Mahal, Ranthambore, each appealing to a distinct yet growing segment of international wedding planners.

Greater Noida: Convenience, Community, and Global Standards

According to Babita Bhatt, EAM – Sales, Radisson Blu Greater Noida, the hotel has seen a steady and significant rise in NRI and expat-led

weddings over the past few years. “As the ‘Wed in India’ initiative gains traction, we’re seeing celebrations consciously move back to India—especially among NRI and expat families looking for familiarity, accessibility, and value,” she shares.

The numbers reflect this growing confidence. Radisson Blu Greater Noida recorded a 12.3% growth in its weddings and social segment from 2023 to 2024, followed by a 19.86% increase from 2024 to 2025. With current enquiry trends, the hotel expects to close 2025 at approximately ₹8.75 crore, translating to nearly 20% year-on-year growth.

A key driver behind this trend is the hotel’s strategic location. Situated close to AWHO, which houses a large community of Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force families, the property naturally attracts families whose younger members often live abroad. “Many of these families prefer Radisson Blu Greater Noida for milestone weddings because it offers easy accessibility, operational ease, and a comfortable, ‘at-home’ atmosphere,” Bhatt explains.

Equally influential is the hotel’s proximity to Jaypee Luxury Residences, a hub for HNI and NRI homeowners. Together, these micro-markets form what Bhatt describes as a high-trust, high-spend wedding clientele, aligning seamlessly with the sentiment of hosting grand yet meaningful celebrations in India.

Another decisive factor for international families is Radisson Hotel Group’s global sustainability framework. “NRI couples often compare venues internationally,” Bhatt notes. “Our adherence to RHG’s sustainability standards positions Radisson Blu Greater Noida as a globally aligned, eco-conscious wedding destination making the final decision easier for families planning from overseas.”

Ranthambore: Heritage, Experience, and Royal Immersion

While urban luxury and convenience draw many couples to Greater Noida, others are gravitating toward heritage-rich destinations that offer immersive cultural experiences. Ranthambore, traditionally known for wildlife tourism, is fast emerging as a premium wedding destination—and Juna Mahal is at the forefront of this transformation.

“Both Ranthambore and Juna Mahal are gaining popularity for destination weddings because they combine luxury, heritage, and natural beauty,” says Amitava Majumder, Head – Sales (Travel Trade), Juna Mahal, Ranthambore. “NRIs and expat families, in particular, are seeking authentic royal backdrops, and Juna Mahal delivers that experience.”

What distinguishes Juna Mahal, Majumder explains, is its unique architectural identity, an amalgamation of Spanish design elements and Indian cultural heritage paired with a dedicated wedding curation team focused on personalised, experiential celebrations. “International guests today want more than just a venue; they want an experience rooted in India’s traditions,” he says.

From traditional welcome rituals to royal courtyard ceremonies, Juna Mahal offers deep cultural immersion that resonates strongly with overseas families. This positioning has resulted in a sharp rise in NRI enquiries from the US, UK, and Australia, driven by the property’s regal setting, bespoke hospitality, and the convenience of an all-in-one heritage venue.

The growth metrics underline this momentum. Between 2023 and 2024, Juna Mahal saw revenue growth of 114.28% and a 66.67% increase in weddings. The following year tells an even stronger story: 2024 to 2025 witnessed a 477.78% rise in revenue and a 333.33% increase in the number of weddings, with bookings jumping from 15 to 65 weddings.

“Ranthambore is rapidly establishing itself as a premium destination wedding location,” Majumder adds. “And Juna Mahal is proud to be leading that evolution.”

A Return to Roots, Without Compromise

Together, these two venues illustrate how India’s wedding landscape is evolving. Whether it’s the urban sophistication and global standards of Greater Noida or the royal heritage and experiential depth of Ranthambore, NRI and expat families are finding compelling reasons to bring their celebrations home.

As the “Wed in India” movement gathers pace, it’s clear that modern Indian weddings are no longer about choosing between tradition and convenience, they’re about embracing both, thoughtfully and meaningfully.