Holding a Regal Nuptials? Delhi Monuments Could Soon Accommodate Your Wedding Ceremonies, With Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb Serving as Majestic Backdrops
Delhi, the historic city of India, is set to take a significant step towards becoming a global hub for destination weddings and events. The Delhi government has announced plans to open around 70-80 historic monuments for private events such as weddings, cultural programs, and corporate meets [1][2][3].
Some of the iconic heritage sites that could potentially host these events include the Mutiny Memorial at Northern Ridge, Dara Shikoh Library at Kashmere Gate, Ghalib Haveli in Chandni Chowk, pavilions at Qudsia Garden, and Bara Lao ka Gumbad, among others [1][2].
To facilitate this initiative, the government is taking several measures. These include simplifying the permission process for holding events at these heritage sites, launching a Digital Single Window Clearance System, and developing new policy reforms for venue allocation and introducing a standardized and transparent fee structure [3][4].
The government aims to ensure that event activities do not damage the monuments, preserving their historical integrity while allowing active use [1][2]. This plan is being pursued through consultations between the Department of Tourism, Art, Culture & Language and industry leaders under a public-private partnership model aimed at boosting Delhi's event tourism infrastructure and reputation [3][4].
If done thoughtfully, Delhi could host events where history meets celebration, offering a new way to experience its rich legacy. The revenue potential includes ticket sales, permit fees, and tourism revenue. For instance, if just 5% of those weddings, about 17,500 ceremonies, were held at historic locations with an average spending of Rs 1 crore each, the total revenue could reach Rs 1,750 crore [1].
Moreover, if 500 additional high-end events like fashion shows or corporate launches were hosted at these locations, with an average budget of Rs 50 lakh each, Delhi could see an extra Rs 250 crore in earnings [1].
However, it is crucial to balance this plan with strict conservation protocols, as the monuments fall under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The government is expected to present the proposal to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for final approval [2].
This news comes as Delhi earned over Rs 4 crore from ticket sales at heritage sites annually [1]. The vision is to showcase Delhi's heritage in new and experiential ways through weddings and events at architectural landmarks, taking inspiration from successful models in cities like Rajasthan, Dubai, Bangkok, and Mumbai [1][2].
References: [1] https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-plans-to-open-70-80-historic-monuments-for-private-events-101663200510764.html [2] https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/delhi-to-open-historic-monuments-for-private-events-123040400124_1.html [3] https://www.india.com/lifestyle/weddings/delhi-to-allow-private-events-at-historic-monuments-like-qutub-minar-old-fort-and-humayuns-tomb-1824726/ [4] https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/delhi-to-open-historic-monuments-for-private-events-like-weddings-to-boost-event-tourism-infrastructure/2639422/
Home-and-garden events could potentially be held at the iconic heritage sites in Delhi, such as the Mutiny Memorial at Northern Ridge and Dara Shikoh Library at Kashmere Gate, as the government aims to make these historic monuments accessible for private events to boost Delhi's event tourism infrastructure [1][4]. To maintain the historical integrity of these sites, the government is implementing a standardized and transparent fee structure and consultation between the Department of Tourism, Art, Culture & Language and industry leaders [1][2].
