Contemporary Challenges Before the Institution of Marriage in India

Marriage, as a social institution, has always been central to Indian society, holding deep cultural, religious, and familial significance. Though practiced in diverse forms, one of its key features is the conjugal union of a man and woman, believed to provide mutual satisfaction of biological, psychological, social, and economic needs. Marriage is also recognized as an institution with legal and moral authority. However, in recent decades, the institution of marriage in India has faced a series of challenges that are reshaping its traditional form and function. These challenges are multifaceted, encompassing socio-economic, cultural, legal, and technological dimensions. Objective: The primary objective of this paper is to critically examine the contemporary challenges confronting the institution of marriage in India. It aims to analyze the influence of changing social norms, shifting gender roles, economic pressures, globalization, and technological innovations on marital practices. Additionally, it seeks to assess the implications of recent trends such as the recognition of live-in relationships, same-sex partnerships, debates on polygamy, and the growing role of digital platforms in matchmaking. Methodology: This research adopts a doctrinal methodology, focusing on a critical examination of constitutional provisions, statutory frameworks, and landmark judicial pronouncements. It also incorporates secondary sources, including books, journal articles, reports, and contemporary surveys, to contextualize these developments. A comparative perspective has been applied to situate India within global trends in marriage and family law. Significance: By combining legal and sociological perspectives, the paper contributes to the understanding of how marriage in India is being reshaped in the twenty-first century. It argues that addressing these challenges through empathetic reforms and constitutional morality can pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient marital framework.