This article is written by Ms. Pandey Riya Rajesh, A Second- year student at University of Mumbai Law Academy, Mumbai.
ABSTRACT:
This article explores the changing trends in Hindu marriages in India, emphasizing the impact of modernization, globalization, and evolving societal attitudes. It delves into the historical background of Hindu marriages, highlighting their deep roots in ancient texts and traditions. The influence of factors such as urbanization and globalization is discussed, leading to a shift in marriage practices, including smaller ceremonies and the adoption of new wedding trends. The role of women is examined, noting increased agency and a re-evaluation of traditional gender roles. Changes in the pattern of marriages, such as the decline of polygamy and a delay in the age of marriage, are explored. The article also addresses transformations in the concepts of endogamy and exogamy, as well as emerging trends like homosexual relationships and live-in partnerships. Despite positive shifts towards individualism and inclusivity, the article acknowledges the challenges in balancing tradition and modernity in the evolving institution of Hindu marriage.
INTRODUCTION:
Marriage is undoubtedly a personal relationship and a private affair between parties, but it is a complex social affair. Marriage creates new social relationships and mutual rights between spouses. It establishes a child’s rights and status at birth. Each society recognizes specific procedures for creating such relationships and rights. Society dictates prohibitions, priorities, and regulations when making decisions about marriage. Through this system, people maintain the continuity of their race and achieve happiness in a socially acceptable way.
Defining marriage in a watertight compartment or any framework is very difficult because it involves sacredness. Marriage can generally be described as a legal bond/commitment between a man and a woman. Also, this bond is strongly associated with love, tolerance, support, and harmony. Starting a family also means entering a new stage of social progress.
Changing trends in Hindu Marriages in India have been a subject of immense interest and debate over the years. The institution of marriage in India holds significant cultural, social, and religious significance. However, with the changing times, various aspects of Hindu marriages have transformed, leading to a shift in traditional norms and practices. However recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the traditional practices and customs associated with Hindu marriages in India.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:
The concept of marriage in Hinduism has its roots deeply embedded in ancient texts, scriptures, and traditions. The institution of marriage is considered a sacrament and is perceived as a lifelong commitment between the individuals involved. It is seen as a duty and a necessary aspect of life to ensure the continuity of family lineage and the preservation of cultural and religious traditions. The traditional Hindu marriage is characterized by a series of rituals and customs, such as the exchange of garlands, the seven steps around the sacred fire, and the chanting of Vedic hymns.
Over the centuries, Hindu marriages have been influenced by social, political, and economic changes. The introduction of various laws and reforms, such as the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, has played a significant role in shaping the institution of marriage in India. Additionally, globalization and modernization have also had an impact on changing trends in Hindu marriages, leading to the adoption of new practices and approaches.
It is likely that our earliest ancestors belonged to the “primitive group”. Males and females’ mate with numerous partners in ad hoc groups without long interactions. Because there was no tie between males and females, babies were more developed at birth than they were later, and males were neither protectors nor providers, mating became unnecessary.
Significant societal shifts have a profound effect on marriages and families. Certain societies—especially the more contemporary agrarian societies—view marriage as a partnership in which both parties share equal responsibility for the family’s financial survival. The separation of work and home was the biggest alteration brought about by industrialization in the family structure. The division of labour and the institution of marriage is impacted by home in numerous ways. First, the family is now a tiny core home instead of a large family system. The change in culture from producer to consumer has also been aided by the rise of the industrial economy. Everything a family required, including home, food, and clothes, was produced under the early family system. The regulation of marriage has been significantly impacted by this producer-to-consumer shift.
IMPACT OF MODERNIZATION ON THE CHANGING TRENDS:
Several factors have contributed to the changing trends in Hindu marriages in India. One of the key reasons is the impact of modernization and urbanization. As India undergoes rapid economic development and urban expansion, there has been a noticeable shift towards more contemporary and simplified marriage ceremonies. Younger generations are increasingly opting for smaller, more intimate weddings that are less bound by traditional customs and formalities. This shift can be attributed to the changing lifestyles, values, and priorities of the youth in urban areas.
On one hand, it has led to greater individualism and autonomy in decision-making regarding marriage. Young couples are increasingly asserting their preferences and choices when it comes to selecting a life partner, planning the wedding ceremony, and negotiating the dynamics of their marital relationship. This shift reflects a departure from the traditional arranged marriage model towards a more egalitarian and participatory approach to marriage.
Furthermore, modernization has also influenced the way in which marriage is perceived and experienced by individuals. With the blurring of gender roles and the emphasis on personal fulfilment and compatibility, there is a growing emphasis on companionship, emotional intimacy, and mutual respect in marital relationships. This is evident in the changing dynamics of spousal relationships, where couples are seeking to build partnerships based on shared values, aspirations, and aspirations
IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON THE CHANGING TRENDS:
Another significant factor driving the changing trends in Hindu marriages is the increasing influence of globalization. The increasing exposure to global media, popular culture, and social media has led to the adoption of new wedding trends and practices that were previously unheard of in traditional Hindu marriages. For instance, the concept of themed weddings, destination weddings, and extravagant pre-wedding events has gained popularity among urban, upwardly mobile couples.
Moreover, the influence of globalization has also impacted the way in which marriage alliances are formed and negotiated. With the rise of online matrimonial platforms and social networking sites, individuals have greater access to a diverse pool of potential partners from different cultural, regional, and religious backgrounds. This has facilitated inter-caste and inter-community marriages, leading to greater social and cultural integration within Indian society.
ROLE OF WOMEN IN CHANGING TRENDS:
The changing trends in Hindu marriages in India have also brought about significant shifts in the roles and status of women. Traditionally, women in India were expected to conform to societal expectations and familial norms in the context of marriage. However, with the advent of modernization and women’s empowerment movements, there has been a noticeable transformation in the way women perceive and experience marriage. Women are increasingly asserting their agency in choosing their life partners, pursuing education and career aspirations, and challenging traditional gender norms within the institution of marriage.
Furthermore, the changing trends in Hindu marriages have also led to a re-evaluation of traditional gender roles and responsibilities within marital relationships. There is a growing emphasis on gender equality, shared decision-making, and the renegotiation of domestic duties and responsibilities. This has led to a more equitable distribution of labour within the household and a shift towards more egalitarian and companionate marriages.
CHANGES IN PATTERN OF MARRIAGES:
- CHANGING FORM OF MARRIAGES:
Monogamy was the predominant form of marriage in traditional Hindu societies . Monogamy is universal type of marriage which almost exists in every society. In such type of marriage one man marry with one woman. Only monogamy can provide marital opportunity and satisfaction to all the individuals. It produces the highest type of love and affection between husband and wife. Whereas, Polygamy is a type of marriage in which men can marry more than one woman at the same time. Polygamy is still exists and legal in many countries especially in Muslim countries. The laws of majority Muslim states are derived from their religion. Taking more than one wife is considered normative behaviour in Muslim countries. However, in country like India polygamy is considered as unlawful and unethical practice after the enactment of Hindu Marriage Act 1955 for Hindus. Over time, polygamy and swap marriages declined sharply and most people in Indian society follow monogamy
- CHANGING PURPOSE AND OBJECT OF MARRIAGE:
“Dharma” is defined in traditional Hindu marriage as the performance of religious duties. Several of the most significant customs related to Hindu marriages include those of Agni Parinayana, Pani Grahana, Vivaha , Kanya Dana, and Saptapadi. On the one hand, we discover that Hindu marriage customs and ceremonies have been trimmed down because of a shortage of time. Priests are regularly asked to hasten marriage ceremonies on occasion. However, some marriages are consummated in civil courts. This significantly diminished the sacredness of ceremonies. In addition, the Arya Samaj movement made marriage customs simpler. The transition from the sacred to the secular in Indian society is another reason contributing to the waning religiosity of marriage.
Moreover, Hindu marriage’s primary goal is based on Dharma, modern culture is gradually changing this idea. Even though having sex, or kama, was a necessary reason for Hindu marriage, it wasn’t given as much importance. The reasons for getting married have drastically altered in the previous few years, especially the later one grew more essential, and Dharma’s significance in marriage has decreased. The foundation and intentions behind Hindu marriage will be altered in this way.
- CHANGES IN THE AGE OF MARRIAGE:
In the past, girls tended to marry earlier when they reached marriageable age in India. In certain unique situations, such as Rajasthan, girls are married at a relatively young age—roughly 3–4 years old—without understanding what marriage entailed. The Child Marriage Restriction Act, sometimes referred to as the Sarda Act, was passed in 1929 and established the minimum marriage age for males and girls at 17 and 14, respectively. This law covered every Indian. The minimum age of marriage was raised to 21 for girls and 18 for boys with the 1978 amendment. Furthermore, their offspring are more engaged in education due to their professional training, delaying marriage by 25 to 30 years.
However, the past few decades have seen a notable transformation in this aspect. With increasing access to education and awareness campaigns, there is a growing trend towards delaying marriage. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-4, the median age at first marriage for women has increased from 18.3 years in 2005-06 to 19.4 years in 2015-16. Similarly, for men, the corresponding age has increased from 22.6 years to 23.2 years
This statistical shift indicates a positive change in societal attitudes towards ensuring that individuals have the opportunity to pursue education, career aspirations, and personal growth before entering into marital life.
- CHANGES IN CONCEPT OF ENDOGAMY AND EXOGAMY MARRIAGES:
Families were prohibited from marrying members of other castes or religions until recently. However, right-age men and women today have the freedom to choose to get married. It was assumed that city dwellers would choose their spouses for marriage, work in industries, have high levels of education, form nuclear families, and have few kids.
The laws of endogamy have undergone a significant alteration. The Hindu Marriage Barriers Elimination Act of 1946 made it legal for members of the same caste to marry each other.
The Arya Samaj movement encouraged unions between different castes. Previously unimaginable, inter-caste unions are now not only accepted but also promoted. Apart from legal frameworks, the autonomy to select a partner promoted inter-caste unions.
The 2011 Indian Census reported that inter-caste marriages constituted approximately 5.8% of all marriages in India. This figure indicates a positive change in societal attitudes, reflecting the increasing acceptance and openness towards inter-caste relationships. This trend can be attributed to education, urbanization, and generational shifts, which have challenged the rigidity of traditional caste boundaries.
- EMERGING TRENDS OF HOMOSEXUALS AND LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIPS:
Rapid increases in the number of homosexuals and lesbians in India seem to have taken Indian society by surprise. A study claims that there are there are thousands of homosexual men and lesbians living in India’s cities. A kind of union when same-sex partners exchange vows. Same-sex couples now have the same legal rights as married couples with regard to pensions, inheritance, rentals, and property according to the Civil Partnership Act,2004. Although these early institutions did not support society’s smooth operation, marriage in these civilizations followed a distinct pattern from that of traditional societies.
Premarital and extramarital affairs were prohibited in the past. A boy and a girl were married because of love. Love was not the reason behind marriage. Teenagers might not understand the purpose of marriage. On the other hand, sexual norms and ideals have evolved significantly. Premarital sex, which was taboo in traditional Indian society, started to come into the open. The shift from dating to cohabitation is visible, which may or may not lead to marriage. Due to the influence of Western culture and weakened regulation of sexual behaviour, married people are engaging in non-partner sexual relationships. It is now socially acceptable for couples to have sexual relations, own homes, and have children outside of formal marriage.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, the changing trends in Hindu marriages reflect a shifting societal landscape and the influence of globalization. The increase in interfaith and intercultural marriages highlights a growing acceptance of diversity and a move towards inclusivity. Additionally, the rise in love marriages signifies a shift from traditional arranged marriages, with individuals having more agency in choosing their life partners. These changes also highlight the impact of technology and social media in shaping romantic relationships. However, it is important to recognize that while these trends may be positive in many ways, they also bring new challenges and complexities to the institution of marriage. It is crucial for individuals and society as a whole to navigate these changes while upholding core values and traditions that are meaningful to them.
While these changes signify a shift towards more individualistic, egalitarian, and inclusive marital relationships, they also pose challenges in terms of preserving the cultural heritage and values associated with Hindu marriages. As India continues to navigate the complexities of tradition and modernity, the institution of marriage will undoubtedly continue to evolve, adapt, and redefine itself in response to the changing needs and aspirations of its people.
REFERENCES:
STATUTES:
Civil Partnership Act, 2004
The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
The Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929
The Hindu Marriage Barriers Elimination Act, 1946
WEBSITES & PUBLICATIONS:
This article was originally written by Ipsa Swara*, Titled: Marriage in Indian Society: Forms, Types, Rules and Changing Patterns. The link for which is herein http://crm.skspvns.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/107-Ipsa-Swaraj.pdf
This Article was originally written by Monali. P. Gandhi, Titled: Changing Marriage patterns in Hindu Society. The link for which is Herein https://ijrssis.in/upload_papers/03032023055806f_Monali%20Gandhi%20Paper.pdf
Features of Hindu Marriage that are changing and evolving. The link to which is herein https://www.legalserviceindia.com/legal/article-7398-features-of-hindu-marriage-that-are-changing-and-evolving.html
The changing trends of Indian Weddings. The link to which is herein https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/heres-how-modern-indian-weddings-are-defying-age-old-norms/the-changing-trends-of-indian-weddings/photostory/66055580.cms
Changing Trends in Marriage: A Study of Matrimonial Advertisements In Newspapers by Dr. (Mrs.) Manjeet Hunda. The link to which is herein https://www.questjournals.org/jrhss/papers/vol3-issue11/E3113642.pdf
BOOKS:
Parkash S, Marriage in the Hindu Society: From Tradition to Modernity, 2011