There are many. For instance, the pre - wedding Haldi ceremony where turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom for purification and to give a glow to their skin. After the wedding, the couple often visits the groom's family home in a ritual called Grihapravesh. Here, the bride is welcomed into her new home with various rituals, like stepping on a plate of rice and being offered sweets.
One challenge is the lack of prior acquaintance. Since the couple may not know each other well before marriage, it can take time to build an emotional connection. Another challenge is adjusting to different family cultures within the joint family system. For example, different eating habits or daily routines might cause some friction.
One important cultural significance is the preservation of family traditions. Arranged marriages ensure that the family's values, caste, and religious beliefs are passed on. For example, in many Hindu families, marrying within the same caste is considered important to maintain the purity of the lineage. It also strengthens family ties as the two families become closely connected. Another aspect is that it is seen as a way to ensure social stability. The families carefully select a partner who they believe will be a good addition to the family and will contribute to the family's reputation in the community.
Often as a taboo - breaking concept. In many Indian stories, open marriage goes against the deeply - rooted values of monogamy and family honor. So it is shown as something that shakes the very foundation of the traditional Indian family setup.
One story is about a couple who were arranged to be married. At first, they were quite nervous around each other. But as they started to communicate more, they found out they both loved classical music. They attended concerts together and this common interest brought them closer. Eventually, they fell deeply in love and had a very happy marriage.
In Indian arranged marriages, one common experience is the coming together of two families. There is often a big celebration with elaborate wedding ceremonies. Couples may initially start with getting to know each other's families and traditions. For example, they might participate in family rituals together. Another aspect is that there is a sense of building a relationship based on mutual respect and family values. They gradually learn about each other's likes and dislikes and start a new life journey together.
Respect for elders is a major cultural value in Indian marriages. The newly - weds are expected to show deference to their parents and older family members. Another value is the importance of family unity. The couple is seen as a new addition to the larger family unit, and they are supposed to contribute to its harmony.
One possible reason could be the influence of modern Western values clashing with traditional Indian values. For example, in modern times, some individuals may seek more individual freedom which might conflict with the traditional family - centered values in Indian marriages.
A typical experience in Indian arranged marriages is the long process of finding a match. It can take months or even years. The families look for a partner who has good educational qualifications and a stable job. Once the couple is introduced, they may communicate through phone calls or family - arranged meetings. The wedding itself is a grand affair with lots of guests. After marriage, the couple has to balance their own relationship with the expectations of their families. In many cases, the couple grows to love each other over time as they share life experiences and build a family together.
A common factor is the lack of freedom. In some traditional Indian marriages, wives may not have the freedom to make decisions about their own lives, like choosing their friends or hobbies. This can lead to a sense of being trapped and dissatisfied. For example, if a wife is interested in painting but her family discourages it as it's not seen as a 'proper' activity for a married woman.