IS LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIP AN ALTERNATIVE TO MARRIAGE?

For many years silver screen has been viewed as the gauge of society's advancing mentalities. Movies like Shudh Desi Romance were pivotal in depicting the present age acceptance and comfort for the phenomenon called “LIVE-IN” – a purely new amalgamation of romance and companionship. Frequently considered the fortification of "wanton" urban dwellers, live-in relationships have risen as the new acceptable way of living with your intended partner, for scores crosswise over little towners and urban communities. Marriage is no more the holy transitioning custom it once was. I believe this new, uninhibited state of mind to love is a more expressive ritual of co-existence. Matrimony is no more a sacred ritual demanding social acceptability. It’s more of a co-existence for the ever so competitive youth, that value love as well as individuality. Graduates from colleges like IITs, IIMs have often reflected their views regarding how sacrosanct the bond of marriage is. Yet, the concept of live-in relationship is alluring to them. They can get to understand the partner in a more conducive environment and it’s also an opportunity for their love to blossom.

Marriage is a not a mere bond, rather a big commitment. Hence, it's common to be somewhat anxious before bouncing in. In any case, the trends and latest studies recommend that more individuals today appear not just on edge about the possibility of marriage, they are avoiding it. Of the different routes in which one can start a family (marriage, live-in relations, or having a kid without being legally married), living together has turned into the most widely recognized alternative. One purpose behind this great enthusiasm for living-in together over marriage may not be the fear of the union itself, but more for the possible fear of its breakdown. It might be the approaching prospect of separation that is driving more individuals to pick the absolute question of to either ask "Will you move in with me?" or rush to the question "Will you marry me?"

After having read a lot about live-in relations and the prospect of marriage, I came upon the observation that both nearly depict the same intention of spending your life with the one you love. However, both are enroute on a different path. The former asks you of no bonds or legal bindings, just a trust and belief that no matter what, I’m going to stand with you always. The latter comes with a legal certification that is well accepted by our society, still diseased with many ill-rituals that wish to be termed cultural, but are not. It’s all about your choice whichever way you want to go. What matters the most is your faith in the divine feeling of love and companionship.

By- Aksh Bhardwaj
          FMS, DELHI