Family & Marriage in India
Relevant for sociology optional Paper- 2 (Unit- 12 : Social Structure)
Family and Marriage are integral parts of Indian society. The family has been the primary social institution in India since time immemorial. The family structure in India is predominantly patriarchal, where the male is considered the head of the household, and his authority is unquestionable. However, with the advent of modernization and urbanization, the family structure in India is slowly changing.
Marriage is an important social institution in India, and it is considered a sacred bond between two individuals. The institution of marriage is so deeply ingrained in Indian society that it is often referred to as ‘Sanskara,’ a Sanskrit word that means sacrament. Marriage in India is not just a union between two individuals, but it is also a union between two families.
In India, marriages are mostly arranged by the families of the bride and groom. Arranged marriages are prevalent in India, especially in rural areas. However, with the changing times, love marriages are also becoming common, particularly in urban areas. Love marriages are marriages that are based on mutual love and attraction between the two individuals.
Marriages in India are also governed by various social and cultural norms. For example, in most Hindu marriages, the bride’s family is expected to provide a dowry to the groom’s family. The dowry is usually in the form of cash, jewelry, or other valuable items. The practice of dowry is illegal in India, but it still persists in many parts of the country.
Marriage in India is not just a union between two individuals but a union between two families. Therefore, it is essential for the families of the bride and groom to ensure that their respective families are compatible. Compatibility between the two families is determined by various factors, including social status, education, financial background, and caste.
Caste is an important factor in marriage in India. The caste system is a social hierarchy that divides people into various social groups based on their occupation and birth. The caste system is prevalent in India, and it has a significant impact on marriage. In many parts of India, marriages are restricted within the same caste. Inter-caste marriages are still considered taboo in many parts of the country, particularly in rural areas.
The institution of marriage in India is also changing with the changing times. With the rise of urbanization and modernization, the traditional joint family system is slowly giving way to the nuclear family system. The nuclear family system consists of a couple and their children, living separately from their extended family. The nuclear family system is becoming increasingly common in urban areas, particularly among the middle and upper classes.
The changing family structure in India is also impacting the institution of marriage. With the rise of individualism and the increasing importance of personal choice, more and more young people are choosing to marry for love rather than for family reasons. Love marriages are becoming more common in urban areas, particularly among the younger generation.
However, the traditional values of family and marriage still hold significant importance in Indian society. The family is considered the cornerstone of Indian society, and it plays a vital role in shaping an individual’s values and beliefs. The institution of marriage is also considered a crucial social institution in India, and it is deeply ingrained in the social and cultural fabric of the country.
In conclusion, family and marriage are integral parts of Indian society. The family structure in India is predominantly patriarchal, and marriages are mostly arranged by the families of the bride and groom. The caste system is an essential factor in marriage in India, and inter-caste marriages are still considered taboo in many parts of the country. The institution of marriage in India is slowly changing, with the rise of urbanization and modernization. Love marriages are becoming more common in urban areas, particularly among the younger generation. However, the traditional values of family and marriage still hold significant importance in Indian society. The family is considered the foundation of Indian culture, and it plays a critical role in shaping an individual’s character, values, and beliefs. The institution of marriage is seen as a significant social and cultural bond that brings two individuals and their families together, creating a lifelong commitment. Despite the changes taking place in Indian society, the institution of family and marriage remains an essential part of the social fabric of the country. It is a reflection of the deep-rooted values, traditions, and customs that have been passed down from generation to generation. Therefore, while modernization and urbanization have brought about changes in the family and marriage structure, the traditional values that form the foundation of Indian society will continue to be integral to its culture and heritage.
For more such free UPSC notes, Articles, News & Views Join our Telegram Channel. https://t.me/triumphias
Click the link below to see the details about the UPSC – Civils courses offered by Triumph IAS. https://triumphias.com/pages-all-courses.php