Family Life in India

Every region in India has its own characteristics and traditions, like the palm-leaf houses in the south are nothing similar to the stone houses of the Himalayas or the houseboats of Kashmir. Every state has its own identity which is respected by people all around India and also the world. Family life is equally varied in Indian states. India is a country with many states in which people from different cultures, religions, castes, etc. live. The language, clothings, customs, and traditions of people are influenced by the respective regions they reside in.

Most of the families in India are extended families, wherein every member has his/her own role, often influenced by age and gender. Children are cherished and considered as gifts from God. Children can look forward to continual family support throughout their lives, unlike in other countries. However, they are expected to respect their elders and parents, their wishes and family ties. The family structure in India is typical, wherein there are many wedding customs, which have to be strongly followed by people. Religion, caste, traditional practices, and regional differences influence family structures. Indians are more emotionally attached to the members of their family. Husbands and wives are not allowed to openly display their affection for one another.

Marriage and Family Bonding

Marriage is the joining of two families, and in India, it is regarded as more than an individual's decision. Majority of the marriages are arranged by parents. The prospective bride and groom are usually supposed to marry someone from their own caste and religious background. Marriage partners are often found through the extended family circle or in urban areas, through newspaper advertisements and marriage bureaus. It also happens that parents may consider a partner for their children first from their own families, like a son marrying an uncle's daughter. If they don't have a match in their own family, then partners from outside their families are considered. Elders use their experience and wisdom to guide younger family members for their future.

Responsibilities and Financial Support

As per traditions followed, men have held the primary responsibility of financially supporting their families. In the urban areas, women have always been working; but lately even in the rural areas, women have started working and contributing to the income of their families. Women are largely responsible for maintaining the household and caring for their children and aged relatives, even though they may have a career.

Living Style

There is also a variety of living conditions in India. Rich urban families enjoy modern homes, servants and cars; whereas, the middle classes usually live in apartments or smaller homes. Poor families live in simple huts or roofed houses. The living standards don't matter much to the people, as they expect peace and life satisfaction, rather than riches or financial prosperity. Large joint families live in big houses that have many rooms.

Changing Trends in Indian Families

Nowadays, traditional roles are changing, especially in urban areas. There are important values shared and followed by most Indian families. But today's young generation who is into the modern age, don't seem to like the traditions and family practices that have been followed by their families for decades. They are more inclined toward the western culture and lifestyle. Indians generally hold family progress, unity and support, in high regard throughout their lives. Lately, more and more people are opting for 'live-in' relationships, a concept that is borrowed from the West. They prefer love marriages instead of marriages that are arranged by their families.

The discussion on family life in India can be continued further, as there are many good things about it. In its entirety, it would suffice to know that people in India look up to family life and this is evident in the dedication of every member within the family.