In the changing scenario, Marriage is seen as a sacred institution in India. Previously viewed as a lifelong bond, deeply rooted in tradition, family values, and cultural heritage. But now the mindset is shifting, and we are witnessing a shift over the past few years. There is a steady rise in the number of divorces. In India, divorce rates are still low compared to other countries’ but rising rate of divorces is a concerns especially in urban areas.
Exploring the growing phenomenon of divorce in India, examining its causes, societal implications, and the need for changing perspectives on marriage, relationships, and personal well-being few points are mentioned below:
Changing Landscape of Indian Marriages
1. Shift from Arranged to Love Marriages
India has a culture where marriages are arranged by families based on caste, religion, social status, and horoscope compatibility. In marriage, Emotional connection or personal compatibility are always kept as a secondary option. In the current situation, love marriages, especially in urban and semi-urban areas are increasing rapidly. In which individuals choose their own partners, they prioritize emotional compatibility, shared interests, and personal comfort.
2. Increasing Individualism and Empowerment
As education is growing, men and women are becoming more financially independent, and exposed to global cultures, Indian youth are embracing individualism. They now value self-respect, personal space, and emotional fulfilment. In care of women also they are financial independence has empowered many to walk out of toxic or unsatisfactory relationships. Earlier, financial dependence forced them to be in unhappy marriages. Today, education and being financially independent individuals give her the power to opt for divorce rather than suffering silently.
Key Reasons Behind Rising Divorce Rates in India
1. Lack of Communication
Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship. In many Indian communities or households, communication between spouses remains limited due to traditional power and personal inhibitions. Husband-wife relationship in my family exist that do not openly discuss feelings, problems, or expectations. Many times it has been observed that misunderstandings pile up, leading to emotional disconnect and, eventually, separation.
2. Incompatibility and Unrealistic Expectations
It has been observed that movies, social media, and romanticized notions of love are creating unrealistic expectations about marriage. When we talk about daily life then the reality is different. At that time, responsibilities, disagreements, and compromises comes in the way for which they are not prepared. At that moment, couples feel disappointed when their partner does not live up to their emotional, physical, or lifestyle expectations, which they had assumed earlier, leading to friction and resentment.
3. Domestic Violence and Emotional Abuse
This is one of the big reasons for the increasing divorce rate in India. Having awareness campaigns and laws, domestic violence continues in many Indian families. Physical, emotional, or verbal abuse, often normalised or hidden for the sake of societal image.
4. Career Pressures and Work-Life Imbalance
When both partners are contributing to the household, they juggle demanding careers with household responsibilities. Long work hours, travel, stress, and lack of time for each other can lead to disconnection between couples. Many couples also feel that their relationship is suffering due to lack of quality time, leading to dissatisfaction and marital breakdowns.
How to Address the Rising Concern of Divorce in India
1. Promote Relationship Education
Few steps have already been taken by the government, but it needs to be increased more like Educational institutions, community centers, and counselling organisations should promoted for relationship education and awareness. Couples should be made aware that understanding how to handle emotional conflicts, develop empathy, and communicate effectively can equip individuals for a healthier marriage.
2. Normalize Counselling and Therapy
Change in the Mindset and awareness should be made for Premarital and marital counselling. Society should see therapy as a sign of success, not a failure. Counselling should be seen as a tool for growth and healing.
3. Encourage Emotional Intelligence
Government and society must encourage emotional intelligence and self-awareness from an early age. Children must be taught about empathy, respect, boundaries, and emotional resilience can help them develop into mature partners in adulthood.
4. Promote Healthy Work-Life Balance
Companies must recognise the importance of work-life balance. Various steps, like Family-friendly policies, flexible working hours, and mental health support, can help reduce marital stress among working couples.
Message for the Society
The rising rate of divorce in India reflects a change in society that women now look for personal happiness, emotional well-being, and mutual respect in relationships. Our society have to take major step in building a more emotionally aware, balanced, and respectful approach to marriage.
Society should not be clinging to outdated norms or shaming individuals for their personal choices; society must adapt to this change with empathy and support. Marriages should be on the basis of partnership, love, respect, and understanding not on the society burden or pressure.