In an era where pre-wedding shoots are choreographed like Bollywood blockbusters and wedding hashtags are trendier than start-up names, let’s talk about one ritual that’s missing from most shaadi scripts — the Financial Promises ceremony – lovingly I name it ‘Saptapadi’!
Let me tell you about Rhea and Kunal, a modern couple from Pune. Their destination wedding had everything — drone shots, designer lehengas, and even a mehendi DJ battle. But what truly stole the show was their “7 Financial Vows” segment, where, in addition to their romantic sangeet, they sat down (in front of friends and family!) and took money promises that had everyone clapping harder than at the sangeet finale. The idea was never to become MONEY MINDED, it was all about being MONEY MINDFUL!
Here’s what they promised — and what every couple should:
“We Promise to Talk About Money Without Judgement”
No more awkwardness, silence, or assumptions. Money isn’t taboo; it’s teamwork. Just like you’d plan a holiday, plan your finances together.
“We Promise to Know Each Other’s Debts and Dreams”
Credit card dues, EMIs, or a start-up loan – it’s not about shame, it’s about shared clarity. No secrets, no surprises.
“We Promise to Save, Spend, and Splurge Mindfully”
Budgeting doesn’t kill romance; it protects it. Agree on limits and leave space for that Goa trip and the FD.
“We Promise to Respect Each Other’s Financial Independence”
Whether one earns more or takes a career break — equality in financial voice is non-negotiable.
“We Promise to Plan for Emergencies — and Our Future”
Medical insurance, contingency funds, and retirement – not glamorous, but definitely power couple goals.
“We Promise to Write a Will — Not Just Vows”
Uncomfortable but crucial. Secure each other legally, because love is in the logistics too.
“We Promise to Have a Monthly ‘Money Date’”
Light snacks, heavy goals. Sit, sip coffee, review goals, and celebrate small wins — one OTT series can surely wait a bit.
Why this Saptapadi?
In a world obsessed with the social media-focused wedding, this ritual strengthens the marriage realistically. Making financial promises normalises money talks, reduces future conflicts, and builds a foundation based on transparency, respect, and resilience. So next time you’re planning a wedding, skip the third outfit change and add this Financial Promise Ritual instead. It won’t trend like a dance reel, but it’ll strengthen the ‘happily ever after’. While marriage is sacred, so is the prosperity of this new family!
(The writer is a Financial Educator with 15-plus years of experience, a published author, a TEDx Speaker who hosts multilingual podcast shows ‘LaxmiGyaan Library’ & ‘A Sip of Finance’)
