Declining trend of arranged marriage

For generations, arranged marriages in India have been a way for families to secure alliances, often based on caste, community, and socioeconomic status. The practice was deeply rooted in the belief that elders, with their life experience, were best suited to choose a partner for their children. However, this long-standing tradition is now being questioned as individualism and personal freedom gain prominence in Indian society.

Young Indians are increasingly prioritizing personal choice over familial obligation when it comes to marriage. The rise of education, particularly among women, has played a crucial role in this shift. With more opportunities for higher education and professional careers, many young Indians are delaying marriage to focus on personal and professional growth. This delay allows them more time to meet potential partners on their own terms, leading to a rise in love marriages and dating culture.

The decline in arranged marriages is not just anecdotal but is supported by statistical data. According to a 2018 survey by the India Human Development Survey (IHDS), there was a noticeable drop in the percentage of arranged marriages among younger Indians. The survey found that while over 85% of marriages were arranged for individuals aged 25 and above, this percentage dropped to around 70% for those aged 20-24. Furthermore, a 2022 report by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) indicated that nearly 40% of marriages among urban, educated Indians are now self-arranged or based on mutual consent.

Another study conducted by the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) in 2021 revealed that over 60% of young Indians expressed a preference for choosing their own partners, compared to only 35% a decade earlier. This shift in preferences is even more pronounced in urban areas, where exposure to global cultures and the influence of social media have made love marriages more socially acceptable. A similar trend is observed is expected among Keralites and Malayalees living abroad.

Factors Driving the Change

Several factors are contributing to this decline in arranged marriages:

Education and Career Focus: With the rise in literacy rates and access to higher education, especially for women, the focus has shifted to career development. Young adults are now more inclined to establish themselves professionally before settling down, which often involves finding a partner independently.

Financial Independence: Financial independence, particularly among women, has reduced the economic reliance on marriage. Women who are financially stable feel less pressure to marry for security and are more likely to seek a partner based on love and compatibility.

Urbanization and Global Exposure: Urbanization has brought about a change in living patterns, leading to nuclear families and lessened familial control over marriage decisions. Exposure to global cultures through the internet, travel, and media has also played a role in shaping attitudes towards marriage, with many young Indians adopting a more individualistic approach.

Technological Influence: The proliferation of dating apps and social media has provided a platform for young people to meet potential partners outside traditional social circles. These platforms have normalized dating and love marriages, making them a viable alternative to arranged marriages.

Changing Social Norms: The stigma associated with love marriages is gradually fading. With increasing social acceptance, more young Indians are comfortable defying traditional expectations and choosing their partners based on mutual love and understanding.

The Future of Arranged Marriages

While arranged marriages are still prevalent in India, particularly in rural areas and among older generations, their dominance is waning. As India continues to modernize, the trend toward personal choice in marriage is likely to grow stronger. The cultural shift away from arranged marriages reflects a broader movement toward individual autonomy and the right to define one’s life path.

This decline in arranged marriages is not just a rejection of tradition but an embrace of a more inclusive and diverse understanding of relationships. As more young Indians choose their partners based on love, compatibility, and mutual respect, the institution of marriage in India is evolving to reflect the values of a modern, progressive society.