How Much Shagun Should You Give at an Indian Wedding?

Calculate the perfect wedding gift amount in rupees based on your relationship and the occasion.

What's your relationship to the couple?

This has the biggest impact on the recommended gift amount

Wedding Gift Culture in India

In India, wedding gifts — known as shagun — carry deep cultural and emotional significance. Cash is by far the most common gift, traditionally given in odd numbers (like ₹1,001 or ₹5,001) as the extra rupee symbolizes good luck and an ongoing relationship. The amount varies enormously based on region, community, and the families' social standing.

Indian wedding gift amounts have risen substantially with inflation and changing social norms. Close family members at lavish weddings may give ₹50,000 or more, while colleagues and acquaintances might give ₹1,000–₹5,000. South Indian weddings, North Indian celebrations, and weddings in other regions each have their own customs around gifting, including gold jewelry from close relatives.

Gift envelopes are typically presented to the couple or their parents during the wedding reception. Many families maintain detailed records of gifts received, as reciprocity is an important cultural value — what you receive at one wedding is expected to be matched or exceeded when you host your own family celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much shagun should I give at an Indian wedding?

Shagun amounts range widely from ₹1,001 to ₹50,000+. Close family typically gives ₹10,000–₹50,000, extended family ₹5,000–₹15,000, friends ₹2,000–₹5,000, and colleagues ₹1,000–₹3,000. Always use odd numbers ending in 1.

Why should wedding shagun be in odd numbers?

Odd numbers are considered auspicious in Indian culture. The extra ₹1 (like ₹5,001 instead of ₹5,000) symbolizes that the relationship will continue to grow. Even numbers are associated with finality and endings.

Should I give gold jewelry as a wedding gift in India?

Gold gifts are traditional from very close family members, especially parents, grandparents, and aunts/uncles of the bride and groom. For others, cash is more appropriate and practical.

Do gift expectations vary by region in India?

Yes, significantly. Metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi tend to have higher gifting norms. Cultural practices vary across North, South, East, and West India, with some regions having specific traditions around the type and timing of gifts.