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This groom's unusual wedding demands are winning the internet's heart

ETimes | October 29, 2025 11:39 PM CST

In a world where weddings often feel more like Bollywood blockbusters than intimate celebrations, one groom’s heartfelt demands have gone viral, winning hearts across social media. Amid loud music, elaborate décor, and endless photo ops, this groom reminded everyone that a wedding is supposed to be a sacred union between two people, not a spectacle for the world to watch.

A post shared by Major General Raju Chauhan on X brought this groom’s ten unique wedding requests into the spotlight, and honestly, they’re a breath of fresh air. Instead of focusing on flashy shoots or over-the-top performances, this groom is all about keeping the ceremony simple, respectful, and meaningful—a sentiment that has resonated with thousands online.

Here’s a look at the groom’s list of 10 requests that are winning the internet’s hearts:

No pre-wedding shoot. Forget the glamorous photo sessions or cinematic videos. The groom wants the focus to remain on the day itself, not a pre-scripted, Instagram-worthy event.
Bride to wear a saree, not a lehenga. A nod to tradition and simplicity, he wants the bride to feel comfortable, natural, and herself.
Soft instrumental music only. Say goodbye to loud, jarring tracks and vulgar lyrics. Instead, the wedding will have soothing instrumental music, creating a calm, heartfelt atmosphere.
Varmala (garland exchange) just for the couple. Only the bride and groom will be on stage, keeping this moment intimate and sacred.
No lifting during the varmala. Anyone attempting to disrupt this ritual will be asked to leave. The focus is entirely on the couple’s bond.
No interruptions during rituals. Once the priest begins, no one can interfere. This ensures the ceremony remains solemn and sacred.
Photographer and videographer stay discreet. No blocking rituals for shots—photos and videos should capture the day quietly from a distance. “This is a sacred wedding before the holy fire, not a film shoot,” he insists.
No forced posing. The couple will not pose unnaturally for cameras. It’s all about authenticity and staying true to the moment.
Daytime ceremony and early bidaai. Weddings will take place during the day, and the farewell will be completed by evening. This thoughtful approach prevents guests from staying up late, avoiding insomnia, acidity, or discomfort from late-night meals.
No public displays of affection on demand. Anyone trying to force the couple to hug or kiss will be removed immediately, emphasizing respect and personal boundaries.

The social media response has been overwhelmingly positive. Ravee Ahuja wrote, “Excellent message. Forwarding the same to my son and would-be daughter-in-law who are getting married soon.” Gelson Luz added, “There’s a good bit of wisdom in wanting things to be simple and respectful, putting the focus back where it ought to be. It sure sounds like a breath of fresh air.” And Saurabh Saran summed it up beautifully: “Fully support the return of decency in personal celebrations. Let wedding ceremonies not become just a fun event. It is far more important for the two individuals getting married.”

This viral post is striking a chord because it challenges the modern wedding trends that prioritize grandeur over genuine connection. Today, many couples feel pressured to book extravagant venues, hire multiple photographers, and stage elaborate performances, all for social media likes. But this groom’s approach reminds us that weddings are about love, commitment, and shared moments, not about impressing others or following viral trends.

There’s something deeply heartwarming about seeing someone put boundaries in place to protect the intimacy of their wedding day. It’s a reminder that simplicity doesn’t mean boring; in fact, it often means more meaningful, memorable experiences. Guests can actually enjoy the ceremony, connect with the couple, and feel a part of something real, rather than being caught up in staged moments or flashy entertainment.

In an era dominated by spectacle, this groom’s list is a refreshing take on intimate wedding ideas . It’s not about cutting corners; it’s about respecting tradition, prioritizing the couple’s comfort, and keeping the focus on the sacredness of the union.

At the end of the day, it’s a beautiful reminder that love and respect matter more than extravagance. Social media may have amplified this groom’s list, but the underlying message is universal: a wedding should celebrate the bond between two people, not the glitz and noise around it.