Eight years prior, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma and cricketer Virat Kohli transformed the Indian wedding scene with an unprecedented level of secrecy. They married in Italy in December 2017, maintaining complete discretion with no leaks or media attention, which led to a surprising announcement for fans and the entertainment industry. This event marks a significant turning point in the nature of Indian weddings.
Celebrity wedding planner Devika Narain emphasized the remarkable confidentiality surrounding the wedding ceremony, highlighting the careful planning involved in its execution. In an interview for a wedding wear brand, filmmaker Karan Johar described the event as a “secret mission,” noting that the public was surprised by the photos released, as there were no prior indications of a wedding taking place.
The nature and characteristics of weddings, particularly destination weddings, have evolved significantly, with the Anushka-Virat wedding being a pivotal example. Karan highlighted that this event captivated the entire nation, as it was conducted in secrecy; many were unaware of its occurrence until it unfolded. The stunning aspects of the wedding, including her entrance and the chosen venue, resonated with the public, creating widespread admiration.
Narain highlighted the importance of logistics over extravagance in weddings, emphasizing how a particular wedding shifted conventional perspectives. She mentioned that it demonstrated to couples the freedom to express their individuality, stating, “Why that wedding changed the gambit was because people realised they could do whatever they wanted at weddings.”
The wedding planning choices of Sharma and Kohli initiated a significant generational shift, moving away from rigid adherence to family expectations and traditional customs. Their private and personalized wedding approach subtly encouraged others to embrace autonomy in their decision-making regarding weddings.
Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, a couple who dated for four years, married on December 11, 2017. They are parents to two children: a daughter, Vamika, born in 2021, and a son, Akaay, born in 2024. The family has moved to London, seeking a quieter life away from public scrutiny to provide a balanced upbringing for their children.
