Page 20 - HUDCO Darpan October2025

Marriage – A Problem or A Solution?

In today’s fast-paced world, people get updates on everything at their fingertips. Many roles
traditionally associated with marriage are now being outsourced or replaced. Monetary needs
are met through high-paying jobs and credit cards. Vehicle rides are taken care of by app-
based companies. Household chores are handled by service providers. Children are often born
through IVF and raised by nannies. Parents may be working from home, yet ironically, not truly
present at home. Earlier, the scenario was different. Husbands and wives depended on each
other for day-to-day activities. Marriage was a system of mutual give and take, where
responsibilities were shared. Children received full attention from their parents, and emotional
bonds mattered more than money.

Today’s youth, however, look at marriage differently. They have seen their parents’ generation
and are reluctant to repeat the same patterns. Inspired by Western culture, they find
themselves caught between Western individualism and Indian traditions. This “see-saw” often
tilts based on convenience. Many enjoy freedom and independence in their twenties, only to
suddenly realize in their thirties that they must carry forward their cultural legacy. In this haste,
marriage often becomes a rushed decision, competing with their career priorities.

If this trend continues, the very foundation of family life may weaken. Over the next two
decades, marriage could shift from being a necessity to a luxury. Our society may then mirror
several European countries, where declining marriages and birth rates have already led to
economic stagnation and lower GDP growth.

Vishal Kumar
TO (F)

हडको दपण 20 HUDCO DARPAN