Marriage is not merely the union of two individuals or two families. It has long been a strong social institution that helps shape society itself.
In earlier generations, especially during the era of joint families, marriages were supported by collective responsibility. Challenges were shared, guidance was readily available, and age was rarely the sole deciding factor. What mattered most was companionship between husband and wife.
Today, however, as society moves toward nuclear families, marriage is increasingly judged by age, financial readiness, and personal freedom. This shift has led many young people to delay or even fear marriage.
Why the hesitation?
1. Financial instability
Finding a job itself is a struggle today. Retaining it is even harder. Low salaries, rising living costs, EMIs, and housing loans have created deep uncertainty. Many young people feel, “If I cannot secure my own future, how can I take responsibility for another person?”
2. Career comes first
Education, professional growth, and self-identity are priorities. Marriage is often seen as a potential obstacle that may slow careers, increase responsibilities, and restrict personal goals.
3. Fear born from failed marriages
Rising divorce rates, domestic conflicts, and family violence have changed perceptions. Marriage is increasingly viewed as a source of stress rather than stability, creating a fear that one wrong decision could ruin an entire life.
4. Comfort with independence
Living alone, making independent choices, and enjoying personal freedom have become normal. Marriage demands adjustment, compromise, and shared decision-making, something not everyone is ready to embrace.
5. Mental health concerns
Depression, anxiety, and emotional trauma are on the rise. Many question whether marriage is wise without mental stability.
Health concerns cannot be ignored
Medical experts warn that delaying marriage too long can affect fertility, particularly for women. With increasing age, the chances of natural conception reduce, sometimes requiring medical intervention that may strain overall health.
So, what is the right age?
There is no single answer. Experts suggest that readiness matters more than age. Physical health, mental maturity, and financial stability are crucial. However, they also caution that marrying too late may bring its own challenges.
The cost of marrying too late
- Loneliness as friendships and family interactions reduce
- Family pressure and emotional stress
- Difficulty finding a compatible partner after 30, leading to frequent compromises
- Security concerns in old age
- Social imbalance, with declining young populations and increasing elderly dependency
Are you ready for marriage? A moment of self-reflection
Ask yourself how you handle conflict, responsibility, accountability, pressure, and partnership. This mental exercise helps you understand your preparedness.
Marriage is not about rushing or delaying blindly. The real question is simple yet powerful:
Can I provide peace, security, and stability to someone’s life today and tomorrow?
If the answer is yes, then marriage becomes not a burden, but a path to shared growth and lasting prosperity.
