Our Bureau
New Delhi
In 1994, Air India made aviation history by hosting the world’s first in-flight wedding, known as Hawai Bandhan. This unique ceremony took place aboard an Airbus A310, flying from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, and was orchestrated by Laxman Popley, a prominent jeweler, to celebrate his son Dilip’s marriage to Sunita.
The event was a lavish affair, with Air India transforming the aircraft into a wedding venue. Eight rows of seats were removed to accommodate the priest and the wedding rituals, while traditional Indian music filled the cabin. Guests were greeted with rose water and presented with rose buds as they boarded, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Catering was overseen by celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, who curated a sumptuous menu served on Royal Doulton crockery. Each meal tray featured a special menu card adorned with the Hawai Bandhan motif. Although the lighting of the holy fire was not permitted for safety reasons, all other traditional wedding customs were honored during the flight.
This airborne celebration set a precedent for future mid-air weddings, inspiring subsequent ceremonies, including Dilip Popley’s daughter Vidhi’s wedding aboard a Boeing 747 in 2023. This latest ceremony continued the family tradition, showcasing opulence with 350 guests and elaborate decorations that included floral upholstery and projectors for viewing the nuptial rituals.
The success of Hawai Bandhan not only highlighted Air India’s commitment to customer delight but also marked a cultural milestone in Indian weddings. As Dilip Popley reflected on this legacy, he expressed pride in continuing his father’s dream: “My wedding in the air was my dad’s dream. Now I am carrying his dream to another level with my daughter’s wedding.”
Hawai Bandhan has since become more than just a wedding; it symbolizes innovation and tradition intertwined in the skies. With each subsequent celebration, this unique concept continues to capture hearts and imaginations, proving that love knows no bounds—even at 30,000 feet.
