Ludhiana: As the state government imposed fresh restrictions, including night curfew, that has jolted the wedding industry, those associated with the related businesses are now feeling the heat as a large number of wedding functions are being rescheduled, postponed or cancelled because of the night curfew. Amongst the worst affected are make-up artists, videographers, still photographers and band troupe members.
Jaanvi a make-up artist from Model Town, said, “I had more than 12 bookings in this month only, but because of the decision by the state government about the night curfew, more than 50% of my clients are asking for a change of time or refund. It’s so difficult to manage as the time is limited. Now everybody wants there make up to be done in the morning and I am not able to provide services, so many have cancelled their bookings and it is leading me to loss. Last year in this season, I had more than 50 bookings. This year already the work was slow and now this curfew and new restrictions. Hope everything will get over soon.”
“Already this year started with a loss and now the government is not letting us live as they want us to end this year in loss too. 2020 is by far the worst of my life, I was happy that I was getting some good photo shoot plans ahead even many had started booking for pre-wedding shoots, but everything is changed now. Now no dates are confirmed and many have even cancelled the shoots,” said Balraj, who owns a photography studio at Dugri Road.
Sushil Kumar has a wedding card business. He said, “People now are not preferring physical cards as the government can put up a curfew any time. Most of the clients, who paid advance, didn't get the cards printed and they cleared the payment, which is a complete loss.”
Raja, a band owner from Punjab Mata Nagar, said, “Earlier people used to celebrate with full hype and gathering, but because of Covid-19, everything has changed. We used to do at least 50 weddings, but this year first the lockdown came then we refunded the money and now the curfew has been imposed. If the government is imposing the curfew, it should also think about our industry.”