Ranga Reddy weddings face LPG shortage crisis
HYDERABAD: A shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) linked to the ongoing war in South Asia is affecting wedding celebrations and other family functions across Ranga Reddy district.
Organisers say the situation has become uncertain as LPG supplies decline and demand for firewood rises. Many families are unsure whether they will be able to serve meals to guests at weddings and other ceremonies.
War impact disrupts catering ahead of peak wedding season
The wedding season begins on February 18, with several auspicious dates until May 9. There will be no wedding muhurthams between May 17 and June 15 due to the adhika masam period.
Thousands of families have already booked venues and made arrangements for functions. However, uncertainty over cooking gas supplies is causing concern among organisers and caterers.
Commercial LPG cylinder bookings have largely stopped, leading to severe shortages. Several hotels and restaurants have reportedly closed operations because of the lack of cooking gas.
Catering contractors said they are worried about honouring advance bookings and may have to return advances taken from customers.
Families that have already sent invitations are now anxious about whether they can provide proper meals for guests. Some are considering changing wedding dates because of the uncertainty.
Commercial LPG booking halt hits hotels, caterers
The outskirts of Hyderabad have become a major hub for wedding functions. The former Ranga Reddy district has the highest number of function halls in the state.
From modest community halls to luxury resorts and five-star hotels, the area offers venues suited to different budgets. Some large function halls reportedly charge up to ₹1 crore a day for weddings and other events.
Many prominent families from both Telugu states prefer to hold family functions in these venues.
The district has around 2,000 small and large function halls and community halls. With the wedding season underway, most venues are booked until June.
Due to high demand, several venues have scheduled two or more functions on the same day. With summer approaching, many families prefer open lawns for night-time functions instead of air-conditioned halls.
Officials estimate that around 15,000 weddings may take place in function halls alone in the district during February. In addition, many ceremonies are being organised in resorts, farmhouses and private homes.
Livelihood concerns emerge
The wedding season normally provides employment to many sectors.
Function halls, event managers, priests, caterers, florists, photographers, videographers, musicians, beauty parlours, tent contractors and travel agencies depend on these events for income.
However, the impact of the war and the LPG shortage could affect the livelihoods of people working in these sectors.
