Srinagar, April 7 -- BySeerat U Nisa

Kashmir today presents a troubling paradox. It continues to host exorbitant, "big fat" weddings despite being a region with an alarming rate of unemployment, a limited presence of the private sector, and an increasing inclination toward government jobs, jobs that, realistically, may not resolve the employment crisis for decades to come.

At the same time, the region faces a growing economic burden, reflected in its rising debt-to-GDP ratio.

Despite this economic fragility, families often spend beyond their means on wedding ceremonies. Lavish tents and multi-day celebrations have become normalized.

These practices are relatively new to the culture and are increasingly competitive and status-driven, t...