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Big, fat Indian weddings are grand celebrations that bring families and relatives together, weaving joy and social bonding. Needless to mention, we tend to splurge an exorbitant amount of money on wedding ceremonies, which includes choosing the perfect venue, lavish decor, ornate jewellery and designer wear. But while most families willingly invest time, resources and energy into these elaborate arrangements, the same enthusiasm does not reflect in making conscious health choices. Recently, a Mumbai-based nutritionist highlighted this concerning paradox through her thought-provoking social media post.
Sanya Wadhera, associated with the International Sports Science Association (ISSA) company, shared how many Indian households are reluctant to spend money on health check-ups, tests and other basic healthcare needs, whereas they do not think twice about spending exaggerated sums for occasions like wedding functions.
According to the health expert, an average Indian wedding costs between Rs 20 and Rs 25 lakh. On the contrary, an average Indian family spends less than Rs 5,000 a year on preventive health, often dismissing it as unnecessary. She illustrated the comparison in a series of points, highlighting why not giving health needs the same attention can have detrimental effects in the long term.
Sanya Wadhera shared that families spend nearly Rs 2 lakh on a wedding venue for a single night but hesitate to pay even Rs 2,000 for an annual full-body health check-up. Meanwhile, wedding outfits costing Rs 50,000 are likely to be worn only once, yet spending Rs 1,500 a month on better food is often considered expensive. Similarly, opulent catering menus surging to lakhs are common at celebrations, but purchasing a nutrition supplement or fitness support for a few thousand rupees is questioned.
The nutritionist also noted that people have no problem going on expensive honeymoon destinations or investing in gold jewellery that sits in lockers. On the flip side, gym memberships, coaching, or health insurance are frequently postponed. But Sandya Wadhera warns that such actions have serious consequences. The importance of healthcare is only realised when a serious medical condition arises.
For example, Sandya Wadhera said that medical expenses related to heart surgeries or diabetes management can cost lakhs over time. In comparison, it is far easier to maintain a healthier lifestyle through balanced nutrition and exercise, as preventive care may cost far less each year. Otherwise, the hospital bill might give you sleepless nights. In conclusion, she recommended focusing more on leading a holistic life and spending wisely on occasions, especially weddings.
Sanya Wadhera, associated with the International Sports Science Association (ISSA) company, shared how many Indian households are reluctant to spend money on health check-ups, tests and other basic healthcare needs, whereas they do not think twice about spending exaggerated sums for occasions like wedding functions.
Weddings outshine health priorities
According to the health expert, an average Indian wedding costs between Rs 20 and Rs 25 lakh. On the contrary, an average Indian family spends less than Rs 5,000 a year on preventive health, often dismissing it as unnecessary. She illustrated the comparison in a series of points, highlighting why not giving health needs the same attention can have detrimental effects in the long term.
Sanya Wadhera shared that families spend nearly Rs 2 lakh on a wedding venue for a single night but hesitate to pay even Rs 2,000 for an annual full-body health check-up. Meanwhile, wedding outfits costing Rs 50,000 are likely to be worn only once, yet spending Rs 1,500 a month on better food is often considered expensive. Similarly, opulent catering menus surging to lakhs are common at celebrations, but purchasing a nutrition supplement or fitness support for a few thousand rupees is questioned.
Delayed health choices bring heavy costs
The nutritionist also noted that people have no problem going on expensive honeymoon destinations or investing in gold jewellery that sits in lockers. On the flip side, gym memberships, coaching, or health insurance are frequently postponed. But Sandya Wadhera warns that such actions have serious consequences. The importance of healthcare is only realised when a serious medical condition arises.
For example, Sandya Wadhera said that medical expenses related to heart surgeries or diabetes management can cost lakhs over time. In comparison, it is far easier to maintain a healthier lifestyle through balanced nutrition and exercise, as preventive care may cost far less each year. Otherwise, the hospital bill might give you sleepless nights. In conclusion, she recommended focusing more on leading a holistic life and spending wisely on occasions, especially weddings.
( Originally published on Mar 11, 2026 )
