The concept of arranged marriages has always been a topic of argument among the youngsters and the older generation. Some feel that it is the safest form of matrimony and some feel that it is the most impractical way of getting married.

In an arranged marriage, it is mainly the parents of the prospective bride and groom who scout for the perfect match for their children. Once their daughter or son reaches the marriageable age, they start their hunt for the perfect life partner for them. Once a suitable match is found, the girl and the boy are given sometime to take the final decision. If they agree, they are given a months of courtship period. During this time, they are expected to know each other better. But in some cases, courtship period is also not given and the girl and the boy are made to get married within a few days.

The society has a significant role to play in an arranged marriage. While deciding a match for their son or daughter, parents don’t forget what their society expects from them. That’s why, arranged marriages happen, mainly, within the community and not outside it. If the parents of a prospective Punjabi groom are looking for a match, they would prefer that girl’s community to be the same. This tradition is similar in other communities in India as well. Parents believe that, if their children are married within the same community, they will be able to adjust to the new family comfortably.

Arranged marriages are often compared with love marriages.

Arranged marriages are often compared with marriages of convenience. The parents often indulge into matrimony thinking that their daughter should marry someone who will provide her financial security. In fact, there are as many reasons for entering into a marriage of convenience as there are novels dealing with this subject. Although an arranged marriage does not begin with love, there’s always that sensual tension cooking beneath the surface.

The question is whether the concept of arranged marriage is boon or bane? As per statistics on this issue, the divorce rate for arranged marriages in nations encouraging arranged marriages is much lower than those in the United States, where marriages out of love rule.

Though a lot has changed in Indian society and gradually it has become very westernized, arranged marriages are still considered as a favorable option. This system mainly came into existence to encourage caste system or racism.

Arranged marriages are often compared to love marriages. Some people say that in love marriages, the would-be bride and groom at least know each other well before marriage. So, they have enough time to decide whether they are perfect for each other or not. In arranged marriages, knowing the prospective life partner is not given as much importance as much as parent’s approval. Two unknown people tie the knot without knowing, meeting and understanding each other.

The positive aspect of arranged marriages is that the parents who love their children and are concerned about their life. An arranged marriage is most successful if it gets converted into a love-cum-arranged marriage. As in the prospective bride and groom fall in love with each other and get to know each other well before marriage.