Impact of Support to Pakistan on Turkey and Azerbaijan Amid Indian Relations
India’s affluent families and non-resident Indians are increasingly avoiding Turkey and Azerbaijan for weddings and corporate events due to rising tensions related to those countries’ support for Pakistan. This shift has led to the rescheduling or relocation of numerous high-profile events, significantly impacting the destination events industry in these regions. Event planners are now directing their clients toward alternative locations, such as the UAE and Rajasthan, as they seek more politically stable environments for their celebrations.
Shifting Preferences Among Event Planners
Event planners are witnessing a notable trend as clients express discomfort with Turkey and Azerbaijan. Prachi Tandon, co-founder of Copper Events, highlighted that many clients are now considering destinations like the UAE and Rajasthan. She noted that Bahrain has emerged as a preferred location, thanks in part to supportive government policies, including visa fee waivers for couples. This shift reflects a broader sentiment among Indian families who prioritize political stability when selecting venues for significant life events.
Mihir Ranpara, co-founder of GoBananas, shared a specific case where an event planned for Baku, Azerbaijan, was moved to Singapore due to concerns over Azerbaijan’s stance on the India-Pakistan issue. He emphasized that planners are no longer promoting Turkey and Azerbaijan as viable options for events. This trend indicates a growing awareness among Indian clients about the geopolitical implications of their venue choices.
The Impact on Turkey’s Event Industry
Turkey has been a popular destination for Indian weddings, particularly in cities like Antalya and Bodrum, known for their picturesque coastlines and luxurious hospitality. However, the current political climate has dampened demand for these venues. Vijay Arora, director of Touchwood Group, expressed disappointment over the changing landscape, noting that many clients are now looking towards Bahrain, Doha, and other Middle Eastern destinations instead.
The repercussions of this shift are being felt across various sectors in Turkey’s event industry. Venues, hotels, makeup artists, caterers, and transportation providers that once thrived on Indian wedding business are now facing uncertainty. The decline in Indian clientele is a significant blow to an industry that had become accustomed to a steady influx of business from this demographic.
Voices from the Industry
Industry veterans are voicing their concerns about the lack of support from Turkey’s event services sector. Swati Pandya, founder of Global Luxe Weddings, expressed her disappointment, stating that Indian weddings had previously generated substantial revenue for Turkey’s economy. She pointed out that the silence from local service providers regarding the political situation is disheartening. As a result, many planners are now considering options within India, which they believe may offer a more stable and supportive environment for their clients.
The shift away from Turkey and Azerbaijan highlights the interconnectedness of global politics and the events industry. As Indian families prioritize their values and preferences, the landscape of destination weddings and corporate events continues to evolve, prompting planners to adapt to new realities in the market.
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