New delhi: The National Capital Could Soon Offer a Regal Twist to Destination Weddings. Imagine exchanging vows under the shadow of the Qutub minar or dancing the night away beside the centuries-old walls of Purana Qila. That may soon be possible.
The delhi government is prepaering to open the doors of its history monuments for private events. The plan incisions allows, musical nights, corporate meets, exhibitions and conferences at landmarks like Qutub Minar, Old Fort, Safdarjung Tomb and Humayun Tomb. The goal is to position delhi not just as a city of monuments, but as a global event destination.
On Monday, Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra Chaired a High-Level Meeting Where the Proposal was discused in detail. Officials Explred How Delhi Cold Take Inspiration from Global Cities Like Dubai, Bangkok and Mumbai, which host lavish events at premium heritage venues.
At present, the city boasts 70 to 80 notable historical sites. Many of them have the potential to host Cultural and Private Functions with Compromising their heroitage value. The proposal is expected to be presented soon to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for Final Approval.
Why Delhi? Follow the money
Weddings and events are big business. According to Industry Reports, during the 2023-24 Wedding Season (Especially November and December), Over 3 Lakh Weddings in Rajasthan Generated A Staggering RS 6,600 Crore. This came not only from ceremonies but also from services like hospitality, Catering, décor and tourism.
If Delhi was to tap even a fraction of that, the impact count be significant. Estimates sugges that If 5,000 to 10,000 weddings and 500 events was help annually at heritage venues in delhi, the potential revival could record Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 Crore per year. That Figure Includes Ticket Sles, Permit Fees and Tourism Revenue.
A Past Estimate from the 2022 Wedding Season Shows How Much Money Flows Through Delhi Alredy. That Season Saw Around 3.5 Lakh Weddings, Generating Close to Rs 7,500 Crore. If just just 5% of thats weddings, about 17,500 ceremonies, weight at historic locations, Each with an average spending of Rs 1 crore, the total revenue count Rs 1,750 Crore.
Even Outside Weddings, The City Earns Over Rs 4 Crore Annually from Ticket Sales at these heritage sites. IF 500 Additional High-Ed events like fashion shows or corporate launches were hosted at these locations, with an average budget of Rs 50 lakh each, delhi cold see an extra rs 250 brreen in earnings.
Heritage to hospitality
In addition to being economic, the vision is also about showcasing delhi’s heritage in new and experience. Weddings and Events at Architectural Landmarks can bring these historic spaces to life in meaningful and engaging ways for a new generation.
But there is a catch. This Ambitious Plan must be balanced with Strict Conservation Protocols. These monuments fall under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Their preservation remains a top priority. Crowd control and traffic in Delhi are already challenging, and events could add pressure.
Authorities are considering Several Safeguards. A Premium Event Permit System Could Regulate Access While Generating Funds for Conservation. Partnerships with Luxury Hotels and Banquet Providers, Similar to that in Rajasthan, May also Help Manage Logistics without overburdening Monument Spaces.
If done thoughtfully, delhi could only host events where history meets celebration, offering not just photo ops but a whole new way to experience its legacy.