Shagun Etiquette for NRIs: A Guide for Weddings in India
Every year, between November and February, many families living abroad fly home for a shaadi in India. If you are one of them, the excitement is real – but so are the little questions. Should you give shagun in rupees or in dollars? Is a cheque okay? Where do you even find a nice lifafa when you land two days before the sangeet? This simple guide is for our NRI families, and for anyone sending blessings home from far away.
1. Rupees or foreign currency?
For a wedding in India, most families prefer shagun in Indian rupees. It is easy for the couple to use, and it feels "right" inside a traditional lifafa. Fresh, crisp notes are always appreciated.
Some NRIs like to give dollars, pounds or dirhams as a special touch. That is fine too – just remember the family may have to exchange it later. A nice middle path is to give rupees for the main shagun and keep foreign currency for a smaller, fun gift to younger cousins.
2. Keep the auspicious ₹1
Whatever the amount, the tradition of an odd number stays the same – ₹501, ₹1,101, ₹2,101 and so on. Many NRIs keep this habit even in other currencies (like 51 or 101). Want to know why? Read our post on why we add ₹1 to shagun.
How much to give is a family custom, not a rule. It depends on how close you are, regional practice and what feels comfortable for you. Our guide on how much shagun to give at an Indian wedding can help you think it through.
3. Cash, cheque or online transfer?
- Cash in a lifafa – still the most traditional and loved way, especially for elders.
- Cheque or bank transfer – practical for bigger amounts. You can still hand over a beautiful envelope with a blessing card or note inside, so the moment feels complete.
- Sending from abroad – if you cannot attend, ask a family member to hand over your envelope at the function, with your name written clearly on it.
4. Plan your envelopes before you fly
Wedding trips are busy – shopping, fittings, family visits. A simple trick: order your envelopes online and have them delivered to your family home in India, so everything is ready when you arrive. Payment is simple and prepaid, by UPI, card or netbanking.
Think about how many functions you will attend – roka, haldi, mehendi, sangeet, the wedding and the reception – and keep a few extra for surprise relatives. Packs come in 20, 50, 100 and 200.
Add your family name
When you are giving many envelopes, personalised name printing makes your shagun easy to recognise – and it looks very graceful. Name printing is available on packs of 50, 100 or 200. Browse personalised shagun envelopes with name, or see our wedding envelopes for more designs.
Pocket size for travel
Our pocket envelopes (5.3 × 3.2 in) fit easily in a clutch, kurta pocket or travel pouch. Designs like the Red Paisley Lotus and Grey Scalloped Royal Elephant come in Velvet+UV gold foil and start at ₹399 for a pack of 20.
5. A small keepsake for close family
For the bride, groom or a very close elder, many families like to add a silver coin or ginni along with the shagun. A wooden coin box makes it feel extra special – see our ginni and coin boxes.
6. Write a few words of blessing
Living far away, a handwritten line means even more. Write your name and a short blessing on the envelope so the family knows it came from you. Need ideas? Here is what to write on a shagun envelope.
Quick NRI shagun checklist
- Rupees for the main shagun, with the auspicious ₹1
- Envelopes ordered and delivered to your family home before you land
- Name printing for big families (packs of 50, 100 or 200)
- Pocket-size envelopes for easy carrying
- A coin box for the closest relatives
- A pen for blessings!
Why families choose LIFAFEWALA
We are a family business from Agra with 4 generations of trust. With over 1 lakh orders fulfilled, our envelopes are designed and made in India and loved by customers across India.
Wherever you live, your blessings deserve a beautiful lifafa. Explore all our shagun envelopes and get ready for the shaadi season.