IV Bars Spark Controversy at Indian Weddings with Luxury Wellness Trend

A viral video showcasing guests at a destination wedding in India receiving vitamin-infused IV drips has ignited a debate about the appropriateness of this burgeoning luxury health trend. The footage, shared by the wellness clinic Skulpted by Kan, depicts attendees relaxing by the pool while hooked up to IV lines, leading to discussions about the implications of introducing such practices into wedding celebrations.

Understanding the Trend and Its Origins

The concept of an IV bar, once limited to wellness clinics, has transitioned into high-end weddings. The video from Skulpted by Kan describes the experience as a “massive upgrade” to traditional wedding festivities. This trend is not entirely new; IV drips have previously appeared in “detox bars” at upscale events, often alongside fruit-infused waters and wellness shots. The aim is to assist guests in recovering from late-night celebrations, blending health with luxury.

According to industry reports, the IV bar setup at weddings allows guests to receive treatments designed to alleviate dehydration and fatigue. Pricing for these infusions can be steep, ranging from ₹2,200 to ₹4,000, contingent upon the specific packages offered by the clinic.

Medical Oversight and Expert Opinions

The clinic has asserted that the IV bar is operated under strict medical supervision. Each guest undergoes a pre-infusion assessment, with medical professionals present throughout the event. Options for IV therapy include hydration solutions with electrolytes and Vitamin C, with glutathione offered only when deemed medically appropriate.

Despite this medical oversight, the trend has faced criticism from healthcare professionals. Dr. Brunda M. S, an internal medicine consultant at Aster CMI Hospital in Bengaluru, cautions that IV drips should primarily serve medical purposes, such as treating dehydration or illness. She highlights several potential risks, including:

1. Infection at the infusion site
2. Vein irritation or damage
3. Electrolyte imbalances

Dr. Poonam Tiwari, head of dietetics at a hospital in Lucknow, further advises that simple hydration and rest are often sufficient to combat fatigue, urging against the use of IV therapy as a lifestyle enhancement.

As the trend continues to grow, the presence of IV drip services at luxury weddings is becoming increasingly common in India’s metropolitan areas. The introduction of these services by clinics like Skulpted by Kan suggests a shift in how high-end celebrations are approached.

While some view IV bars as an innovative hospitality feature, critics argue that they represent an alarming trend in which medical practices are trivialized for entertainment purposes. This phenomenon raises significant questions about wellness culture and the standards of health and safety in celebratory settings.

Globally, similar IV lounges have emerged in countries like the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and various parts of Europe. However, health authorities across many nations have consistently warned against the unnecessary use of such therapies.

The IV bar trend at Indian weddings encapsulates a fusion of wellness and luxury, appealing to those seeking a unique experience while simultaneously drawing criticism from medical professionals. As this practice gains traction, it remains imperative for guests and organizers alike to weigh the potential risks against the allure of this modern trend.