Overview
Love marriage is a concept that has been growing in popularity in recent times. Though it has become an accepted norm in some countries and societies, it has sparked a lot of debate in Hinduism, with some sections of the society having a positive outlook and others viewing it as a sin and a form of disrespect to their culture. In this article, we will look at the religious and cultural perspectives of Hinduism and explore the various arguments being put forward in the debate around love marriage and its acceptance in Hinduism.
Traditional View of Hinduism
Hinduism and its culture have traditionally emphasized the importance of arranged marriages and have been averse to the concept of love marriages. Hindu religion places a strong emphasis on honour, obedience and preserving the sanctity of the relationship between two individuals belonging to two different families. Hindu scriptures have emphasized the importance of maintaining family honour and the purity of one’s culture. As such, many communities in the Hindu faith look upon love marriages as a deviant practice and consider it to be a sin.
Arguments Supporting Love Marriage
On the other hand, there are some sections of the Hindu society that argue in favour of love marriages and see it as a step forward in modernizing society with respect to marriage customs. They argue that love marriages allow individuals to marry the person they deem appropriate, without being bound by societal expectations and conventions. Supporters of love marriages also argue that since the bond between two people is based on mutual love and trust rather than the bond of two different families, it is more likely to be successful.
Relevance of Religion in Love Marriage
As the concept of love marriage becomes more acceptable in modern society, there is debate regarding its relevance in Hinduism. Some argue that since Hindu scriptures regard marriage as a sacrament, it should not be affected by love-based marital decisions. Others argue that since love marriages allow the individual to make their own decisions about who to marry, Hindu scriptures should not oppose it. Moreover, some argue that an individual opting for a love marriage should still follow the guidelines laid down in Hinduism regarding marriage ceremonies and rituals.
Social Impact of Love Marriages
Additionally, an important factor in considering the legitimacy of love marriage in Hinduism is its impact on society. Those in favour argue that allowing love marriage in the Hindu faith would promote individualism and break the orthodox pattern of arranged marriages. This would result in more free-thinking and progressive relationships. But those opposing it argue that love marriage would weaken the bonds between families and lead to unprecedented social complications. To accommodate both views, some argue that the couple should seek the blessing of both the families before deciding to get married to each other.
Act of Courage or Ignoring Family
Some see opting for love marriage as an act of courage and respect for the other person, while still respecting their own family. Others view love marriages as a form of defiance and disobedience toward their parents, who may have arranged a potential spouse for them. This can be seen as an act of disrespect to their parents and as such, love marriages are seen as a form of sin in Hinduism.
Influence of Modern Culture
In addition to the cultural and religious perspective, it is also important to consider the influence of modern culture in the debate around love marriages in Hinduism. Some people argue that the growing acceptance of love marriages in modern society should be reflected in Hinduism as well. They argue that the emphasis on tradition and culture should not prevent individuals from finding their own special someone and begin a life together.
Digital Impact on Love Marriages
The advent of digital tools such as online dating apps has had an impact on love marriages in Hinduism. They have made it easier for prospective couples to meet, interact and build relationships even from a distance. Supporters of love marriages see this as an example of how society is evolving and traditional views on marriage can be challenged. On the other hand, opponents see online dating as further proof of how love marriages are questionable in the Hindu faith.
Partner Choice
Arguments for and against the acceptance of love marriage in Hinduism also depend on what kind of partner the person is opting to marry. A member of the same caste or a person belonging to another caste or religion can have a different impact on the concept of love marriages in Hinduism. Generally speaking, a person of the same caste or religion is more likely to be accepted in Hinduism, while someone belonging to a different faith or caste is likely to face more scrutiny and resistance.
