Marriage is a sacred and ancient bond, connecting families. Some celebrate it grandly, others opt for legal ceremonies, but most of tthe people marry when they find a partner perfect. However, in the 21st century, with rapid modernisation, traditions like marriage are being questioned or abandoned. Many young people now lack interest in marriage.
Reasons include fear of losing freedom, unemployment, career priorities, and a lack of trust in finding a compatible life partner. In an era of fleeting relationships and online interactions, finding someone who truly understands and shares life’s moments feels challenging. This has led to skepticism about marriage, with some couples even breaking long-term bonds over misunderstandings.
Live-in relationships are an alternative for some, but marriage remains a public and legal commitment, unlike cohabitation. As modernity grows, we risk forgetting traditions.
Scholar Hazariprasad Dwivedi noted that modernity lacks value without tradition, which provides its foundation. The declining interest in marriage threatens this sacred institution, potentially pushing society toward the social imbalances it once overcame.
Dr. Mansi tripathi, (psychologist)
The growing disinterest in marriage among Indian youth reflects a global trend of prioritising individual autonomy and career over traditional institutions. However, marriage in India is not just a personal choice but a cultural cornerstone that fosters social stability and familial bonds. The rise in live-in relationships and delayed marriages suggests a shift toward Western individualism, but India’s collectivist ethos may face challenges if this trend continues unchecked. Balancing modernity with tradition requires fostering trust, economic stability, and open communication to make marriage appealing to the youth without compromising their aspirations