It’s debatable whether Indian marriages are made in heaven, but on earth it’s certainly big money that makes the weddings of the rich and famous and also the not-so-rich and not-quite-famous in the country.

Opulent nuptial knots in India have made headlines, spawned acclaim and now support a Rs. 50-billion ($1-billion) industry. It’s called the ‘Great Indian Wedding Bazaar.’

Defying global recession, India’s marriage factory continues to churn out reams of dreams, effortlessly mixing and matching age-old customs and traditions with cool fashion statements and elaborate pomp.

"The wedding industry in India is growing at a phenomenal rate of 25 per cent annually and with weddings evolving into more creative processes, they call in for experts, and Celebrating Vivaha 2004 is an attempt to synergies and accelerate the growth of the market in this direction", says Tarun Sarda, CEO, Vivaha Interactive.

So, if one has the money, Flamenco dancers, Spanish gig artists, Russian ballet and Egyptian belly dancers, gurus of traditional music and even the hottest Indian pop and film stars could be entertainment on D-Day. Gastronomic delights could be anything from Lebanese and Japanese cuisine to the choicest wines, Dom Perignon in crystal stems, imported chocolates and ice cream. The venue could be a farmhouse redesigned to look like the White House.

“Weddings have turned more chic than ever before,” said Divya Gurwara, the chief executive officer of Bridal Asia, one of South Asia’s biggest nuptial attire and accessories show.

Her show last year displayed three trousseau lines ----- bridal, cocktail and family ----- and some of the best designers from India and neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka showcased their wedding collections.

The show attracted 80 participants, compared to 48 the previous year, and they showed off everything from jewelery, accessories and lingerie to aromatic oils, candles and, of course, scintillating bridal wear.