In what appears to be government executing its contemplated move of turning J&K into a hub of destination weddings while exploiting its potential of natural beauty, Kashmir is poised to become India's first capital, with practical measures being taken in a phased manner. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the Hindusthan-2025 Wedding Planners Expo at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.
The event marked the official launch of the “Wed in Kashmir” initiative, aimed at transforming the valley’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled hospitality into a global engine for tourism and economic growth.In his keynote address, CM Abdullah emphasised the region’s untapped potential beyond traditional leisure, adventure, pilgrimage, and border tourism. “Jammu and Kashmir has immense potential to emerge as the country’s Destination Wedding Capital,” he stated, adding that the “Wed in Kashmir” tagline is more than just a slogan—it’s a movement to harness Kashmir’s scenic allure for prosperity, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
He highlighted how the expo serves as a platform for local entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their talents on a national stage, integrating them into the burgeoning event management ecosystem.The two-day event marked a milestone for the valley’s emerging event industry.The International Convention of the Event Industry was presided over by President Rituraj Khanna, with Gunjan Singhal serving as Chairperson and Irshad Hazari as Convention Director. The convention was formally inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah.
Day one featured detailed industry sessions followed by a grand wedding showcase at SKICC, where leading event professionals presented new concepts and trends. On the second day, the convention concluded with a closing ceremony presided over by Dr. Farooq Abdullah, President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference.Delegates from across India participated in the convention, gaining both professional insights and cultural experiences during their stay in the valley. Organizers said the event not only highlighted Kashmir as a potential hub for the wedding and event industry but also provided a platform for networking and knowledge exchange.
Reflecting on Kashmir’s historical ties to Indian cinema, the Chief Minister reminisced about Bollywood’s golden era. “In earlier times, no Bollywood movie was complete unless a song was picturized in Kashmir. When the sun starts to set behind the fort, when the snow starts to fall in December and January, and when the mustard fields start to turn yellow in March, this beauty reminds everyone of Bollywood movies filmed in Kashmir,” Abdullah said. He expressed the government’s commitment to reviving such “reel-worthy” destinations and placing them back on the global tourism map.
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