As we unveil the lavishness and glamour of Indian weddings, we see the authoritarian nature of the Indian marriage system. I talk about the psychological implications of the pressure to be married within the Indian sub-culture- for both the man and the woman, with a specific focus on the female gender. Practices like Kaanya-daan (bridal donation, a rough literal translation)reduces the woman to being a mere object. I also refer to Sati's historical practice,referring to Ashis Nandy’s analysis of the same. Satre’s concept of Bad faith is referenced to understand the lack of space for the Self to exist, experience and exercise Freedom. Specific focus will be given on what society projects unto Indian women, and what they must contain. All of these have real psychological consequences that impact how one’s mental health and well-being; this also calls for a collective thought reform about how we look at our system of marriage.

Additional note:

I am aware of perhaps the irony or paradox of an Indian man speaking for women. I wish to highlight the intricate & subtle authoritarian nature of marriages- a conversation that happens in small circles, and has often left me with helplessness. It is this helplessness that I come with; aware that I am sure to miss nuances that a woman might have to offer about the same.