It’s funny how certain wedding traditions we perceive to be ancient history, pop up from time to time, reminding us that there is a world out there beyond engagement rings and bridal trunk shows. A good friend of mine who grew up and currently lives in New Delhi, India, just announced that he is engaged. Of course to myself and the rest of his friends living in the US, this came as a total surprise. It was the first we had heard of the girl – as if he had gone from single to engaged overnight.
So I had to ask – why would a present-day Indian, educated in the US and by anyone’s standards – of very modern affluence, go the traditional route of letting someone else choose his wife? Feeling like my American lenses had grown a little too foggy, I decided to look further into this centuries-old institution to find out just how ignorant I really was.
Although prevalent in India and certain (unmentioned) compounds in Texas and Utah, arranged marriages are still practiced in nearly every country of the world. Ever heard of a mail-order Bridezilla? Some cultures match a couple based on astrology, numerology or by comparing the palm impressions of the bride and groom to look for compatibility. Wow, if horoscopes worked that well for me, that new moon sitting over Gemini right now should be delivering me a cash cow in exactly 3 days. Woohoo!
All joking aside, the primary reason for arranged marriages today is tradition and the notion that marriage is sacred and therefore must be carefully planned. Divorce has 
become more tolerated throughout the world but to many, an arranged marriage is a means of divorce prevention. A client I was discussing this with made reference to the dowry but even a dowry of sorts exists in your average “love-marriage” today. What do you call a typical $30,000 wedding?
I wish my friend all the best in his new “plunge” as he calls it. Arranged marriages of course do 
not always work and can cause a lot of pain but I appreciated the chance to talk about it without the negativity it usually receives. Perhaps even the Americans should take a lesson and utilize it as a political tool for the greater good. Hey Bush – you’ve still got one available daughter…. isn’t there an Iraqi prince out there? KIDDING!!
So what does a groom give to his bride upon meeting for the first time? A “Soon to Be Mrs…” Bride 
Hoodie Sweatshirt is a fun way for her to flaunt her “taken” status. And for him? This Leather Cigar Case and Flask Gift Set breaks the ice and he’ll think his new lady is super cool!
This is a great post..thanks for sharing! It is always so astonishing to me that arranged marriages still happen today…but as you said, it is just our ignorance not letting us understand those traditions.
I’m new to your blog, but I’ll keep checking back.
Natasha
Allure Event Consulting
hey, I was not surprised about arranged marriages still happening since I’ve seen it and it does not have to be a bad thing (if carefully planned with eye on the compatiblity ofcourse). In a way they indeed prevent divorce which is good. Seeing how here in Europe so many people try so many relationships and it doesn’t get you anywhere I think this can’t be so bad as it is painted to be
I know it sounds Victorian or some-such, but I’m at the point where if I could find a trusted individual to arrange it, I would be amiable to an arranged marriage. I have two small children, my own home, steady income, and have been divorced. Know the saying “once bitten twice shy”? Well, that’s me. I thought I was getting a “good ol’ boy” and instead got the devil’s lackey. well, not so much, but he and his mom together really burst my bubble.
Yes, I’m a Yank.
My girls need the steadying influence of a dad and have been praying for one for many years. Their refrain has become more obsessive and desperate over the last 6 months.
I wish I could find someone who loves God, loves people, accepts faults and failures because he knows his own, and would be willing to take on two children as his own. Compatibility issues, chemistry, etc., would all have to be considered and worked out but isn’t the first year usually the “courtship” or “honeymoon” stage anyway? why not put it to good use?
Yeah in many families & communities arranged marriages do takes place though love marriage seems to be more in trend!However the main thing for a successful(non-divorced) marriage is the understanding caring and adjustable relationship,whether it be arranged or love marriage.B’coz I have witnessed many gloom arranged marriages and many shining love marriages:)