Controversial Engagement Ceremony: Outcry Over "Flying Angels"

Indian weddings, known for their elaborate rituals and thematic extravagance, often feature dance and music as integral components. Social media frequently showcases videos of celebratory moments, including weddings and pre-wedding ceremonies, with diverse and elaborate spectacles.

Recently, a video of a couple hosting a "heaven-themed" engagement ceremony with "flying angels" has gained widespread attention on social media, sparking diverse reactions from users. The video, originally shared on Instagram by Nikita Chaturvedi, portrays women adorned in white, suspended above the hall, symbolizing "flying angels." These women hold trays with rings for the couple as they descend slowly from above.

The caption encourages engagement with the post, saying, "Comment 'I'll only get married if' and let the autocorrect complete your statement." The video garnered more than 2 million views and over 35,000 likes.

Additionally, another video shared by the same user showcases the couple walking down the aisle towards a decked-up stage. The clip, shared a month ago, has elicited varied responses, with some users expressing concern and disapproval.

Here's the video: 

In the comments section, criticisms labeled the stunt as "inhuman" and "cruel," while others deemed it "dangerous." User comments reflect a range of opinions. One user wrote, "This is so cruel... I mean those are human beings," and another expressed, "This is inhuman. Just to show off, treating a human as a showpiece!" A third user voiced their discomfort, stating, "Apart from the caption, this looks so painful. Those poor girls are suspended in the air for hours for some rich people. This is the most disgusting trend."

Another user added, "STOP using humans as props. I understand that no work is big or small, but everyone deserves basic human dignity and respect." However, Nikita Chaturvedi addressed the concerns in the comments section, providing clarification. She emphasized that the women involved were trained professionals, ensuring their safety.

The user explained, "Hello everyone! I understand the confusion. I'd suggest you head to my profile and watch the pinned reel to see why the angels were hanging. Apart from that, the girls are safe and have performed such stunts numerous times. They are professional dancers and are trained for such stunts. Their safety cables are checked multiple times. Anyway, thank you so much for being concerned and being sensitive."