We have achieved high levels of growth rate and we have been even successful in removing some form of inequalities in the society. We have made path-breaking developments in technological fields and helped achieve equality in the form of education for all. But these
achievements are of no use when cleavages associated with castes and
religions still form the basis of our society.
Two people in love with each other are not allowed to be together just because they belong to different castes – How can we call India a
progressive and modern country then? The need of the hour is to deal with the
challenges faced by inter-caste marriages in the country in a
manner that love triumphs over the evils of the caste system. Knowing the problems faced by inter-caste couples is one step in this direction.
The main problem in inter-caste marriage
1. The couple is disowned by the families
The couple who show courage to marry
each other, despite the disapproval of their families, have to say goodbye to
their families forever. They are disowned by their respective families, who cut
off all ties with the couple. The conservative values and principles become
more important to the families instead of their son or daughter.
2.
The couple is ostracised by the community
It is not only the families of the
couple that disowns and cut off ties with the couple, but the community at large
also excludes the couple and creates problems in the life of the couple. The
community people do not interact with the couple and ignore the couple’s
existence. In rural areas, they are forbidden to stay in their village.
3.
Social pressure makes life stressful for the couple
Since inter-caste marriage is not
well accepted in Indian society, the couple has to face a lot of societal
pressure. No one will support the couple, especially if they have married
without the approval of the parents. While renting apartments, landlords might
create an issue regarding the inter-caste situation. The couple may have no
friends and no relatives may come forward to extend any help
4.
Lifestyle differences are difficult to cope with
Obviously, the partners will have
different lifestyles and cultures since they belong to different castes. This
means that they have to adjust and accommodate these differences. A majority of
the couples fail to do so, because of which arguments and fights become a
common phenomenon among couples.
5.
Continuous interference of the family members in married life
Even if the families approve
inter-caste marriage, one notices that there is continuous interference of the
family members in the life of the married couple. They try to impose their
family and caste norms on the couple at all times. Under such pressures, the
love usually takes a backseat and the couple finds itself engrossed in caste
politics.
6.
Superiority complex may damage the relationship
One of the partners might think that
his/her caste is much more superior and better off than the caste of his/her
partner. This will create a superiority complex in the person and he/she might
start treating the partner in a degrading manner. Over a period of time, this
may lead to resentment and eventually break the marriage.
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