For centuries, marriage has been considered the cornerstone of society — a sacred union not just between two individuals, but also families, communities, and traditions. But in an age of evolving identities, shifting gender roles, and changing relationship dynamics, the question arises: Is marriage still relevant today?
Let’s explore how modern views are reshaping the idea of long-term commitment.
1. Commitment Does Not Mean Marriage Anymore
In the past, marriage was often seen as the only legitimate form of commitment. However, with evolving times people are becoming more aware of their surroundings. For instance, women in traditional Indian marriages were accustomed or expected to be compromising, adjusting and even sacrificing.
With women liberation and its exposure via media and social media platforms, women are realising that gender equal roles must exist in a marriage. Women in urban India at least feel that their husbands must both work in office as well as in the household, as do they themselves.
In many places it is accepted that marriage may not be the ultimate test of commitment. Moving in together before marriage, having premarital sex and eventually breaking up the relationship if lack of compatibility is found has become too casual and widely accepted.
Of course, there are the more conservative parts of India even today, however, you certainly see some sort of shift in the dynamics of the way women are perceived or want to be perceived in a committed relationship.
India Today reports that the divorce rates are rising in India especially in the urban areas. The main reason for this is increasing financial independence. Commitment now means emotional loyalty, shared goals, and mutual respect, rather than just a legal or religious contract or one of financial dependency.
2. Declining Marriage Rates – What the Numbers Say
According to this Indian Express article the interest in the concept of marriage is slowly declining in the Indian youth. Millennials and Gen Z are delaying or opting out of marriage altogether.
Reasons include:
- Economic instability, job insecurity, inflation, increasing expenses are one of the main reasons. In the age of social media, everyone wants to show off what they own and what they can afford. This increases expenses and the inflation doesn’t help either. The whole idea of marriage is scary because it comes with a lot of responsibilities and expenses.
- In the olden days it was all about sacrifice and compromise of passions and dreams. That’s not the case today. Today’s generation is saving up for international trips and planning self growth. They are chasing their dreams and not thinking of saving money for future children.
- Rising divorce rates witnessed in earlier generations is also another reason. The younger generation is being exposed to many real life marital horrors and learn from their peers and friends the kind of injustice or mental torture they face. Moreover, these days tolerance to stress has reduced and people are more prone to mental stress. This in turn makes them get offended by inappropriate behavior or political incorrectness.
- Fear of losing autonomy or identity is another minor reason if not the significant one. This is especially in women who have started to prioritise their career and who refuse to bend to conventional rules of Indian marital conditions.
This doesn’t mean love or long-term relationships are on the decline — just that the institution of marriage is being questioned.
3. Cultural and Social Pressures Still Persist
In India if you are not married at a certain age, the society doesn’t let you breathe. The pressure is for both men and women. This results in pressuring them to opt for arranged marriage. This kind of pressure must not end up in forceful choice of marriage.
All this creates internal conflict between personal choice and cultural norms. With exposure to social media and opinions of many free spirited individuals about the concept of marriage, many are realising that personal choice should have more weightage over cultural norms.
However, voices challenging these norms are growing stronger, advocating for the freedom to love and live authentically.
4. Marriage Isn’t Dead — Just Redefined
It’s important to note that many still choose marriage — and find deep meaning in it. But the reasons for marrying have evolved. People now seek partnerships built on equality, communication, and shared purpose, rather than duty or survival.
Modern marriages are more flexible. Some couples prioritise dual careers, opt for child-free lives, or create unconventional family structures. The key difference? Choice and agency.
5. What About the Future?
As society continues to progress, marriage may not disappear — but it will keep adapting. We’re witnessing:
- A rise in intentional partnerships
- Legal reforms to support all types of unions (like same-sex marriage and civil unions)
- Greater acceptance of those who choose not to marry at all
The future of commitment might not be defined by a white dress and vows — but by values like trust, equality, and emotional connection.
So, is marriage still relevant?
Yes — but not in the way it used to be. For some, it’s a cherished institution that symbolizes love and security. For others, it’s an outdated system no longer necessary for commitment.
What truly matters is choice — the freedom to define love and loyalty in ways that reflect who we are, not who we’re expected to be.