Comparing Marriage in the United States with Marriage in India

Although arranged marriage is an issue which we rarely take the time to consider various viewpoints in, it is nonetheless an issue which has world significance and consequence. In fact, much can be learned about our own culture and marriage practices when we take the time to look at other cultures and how they perceive the institution of marriage. When it comes to issues such as arranged marriages, with which we have a strong emotional pull against, we rarely take the time to consider that there is another side to the debate.

For instance, when looking at India, a country where the majority of citizens, even those who have formal education practice arranged marriage, it is incredibly interesting to learn that arranged marriage is not something which is fought against, or a source of protest among the young of India. The truth, surprisingly, is the exact opposite, many of the youth in India prefer arranged marriages, as it gives them the time and the ability to enjoy their youth without the constant worry and struggle of relationships that comes about in western culture. Also, the youth in India feel secure in their parent's ability to choose an acceptable partner for them, trusting that their parents have enough experience and knowledge to do so without creating a disastrous situation. The fact that arranged marriage is actually preferred, and may even indeed be a healthy and happier form of love than the marriages that we experience in America certainly comes as somewhat of a shock, or at least a surprise.