In the modern fast-changing world, technological and industrial advancements are occurring at a very rapid pace for last few decades, which has revolutionized all aspects of our life. Globalization during last few decades hastened the changes, affecting almost all aspects of our social life,including Family Structure, Marriage, Relationships and so on.
In the contemporary society, live-in relationships – where couples cohabit without formal marriage –are becoming increasingly common.
Live-in relationships are a complex and nuanced topic in India. There are differing views and perspectives on their impact on Indian culture. Some see them as a positive evolution, allowing greater personal freedom and autonomy. Others view them as a concerning deviation from traditional family structures and social norms.
Live-in Relationship is one of the ideas of western civilizations which wants to destroy the Family Structure in society. Family Structure is very important to save the society from Immoralities.
The Indian Culture doesn’t encourage live-in relationships. A survey conducted by Ipsos India in 2022 showed that 65% of Indians still disapprove of live-in relationships, considering them socially unacceptable. A 2019 YouGov survey found that over 55% of Indians were against the idea of live-in relationships, especially in smaller cities and rural areas. The disapproval was highest among older age groups and more traditional communities.
But Bollywood is playing a key role in changing the perceptions of Indian society. A report by KPMG India in 2021 noted that Bollywood’s portrayal of live-in relationships, especially in films like Salaam Namaste, has contributed to a 20% increase in acceptance among urban youth over the last decade.
Live-in Relationship is playing a Havoc in destroying the moral and ethical foundations of the Indian society. Although exact figures are hard to pinpoint, a study by the Indian Journal of Psychology in 2018 indicated that live-in relationships in urban India have a breakup rate of approximately 60% within the first two years. The same study found that individuals who went through a breakup in a live-in relationship were 35% more likely to experience depression and anxiety than those who ended a formal marriage.
The Indian Journal of Social Work published a 2022 study noting that children born out of live-in relationships face more societal discrimination and questions about legitimacy. This can negatively impact their social development and self-esteem. The same study also reported that nearly 30% of live-in couples face opposition from family members, leading to strained familial ties and conflicts over traditional values versus modern practices.
The decision of a man to leave his live-in relationship partner can have far-reaching and devastating consequences for the woman involved. Beyond the immediate emotional pain, she may face long-term challenges related to financial instability, social stigma, legal vulnerabilities, and difficulty in forming future relationships. This leaves women particularly vulnerable.
In the pursuit of personal freedom and modern lifestyles, it’s crucial not to lose sight of the values that form the foundation of a strong and healthy society. Time-honored principles such as loyalty, commitment, and the sanctity of family play a vital role in maintaining social order and fostering moral integrity. Relationships based on these values promote stability and trust, ensuring that individuals are not left vulnerable to emotional, financial or societal harm.
While understanding and compatibility between partners are essential, they must be pursued within frameworks that emphasize responsibility and long-term commitment. A stable society relies on preserving these ethical principles, as they safeguard individuals, protect future generations, and uphold the moral fabric that binds communities together. In the end, prioritizing relationships that align with these timeless values ensures a society that thrives on mutual respect, integrity, and enduring bonds.