A Comprehensive Study of Indian Marriages Through the Works of Devdutt Pattanaik

Abstract

In Hindu religion, marriage is considered as a lifetime absolute commitment.  In Hindu beliefs, the principle ground of marriage is for procreation and is also an approach to follow four goals of existence: dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. In viewpoint of one of India’s most significant mythological writer Devdutt Pattanaik, the scheme of marriage has made progress with the passage of time from Vedic mantras to religious, social and cultural obligations. Marriage often marks a significant life transition from bramcharya to grihastha asharama, introducing new roles and responsibilities. In Indian customs, ghristha stage of life is a recommendation and not a requirement. Devdutt Pattanaik, in his works has elucidated about eight types of marriages according to ancient Indian texts. Marriage signifies a social pledge to a long-term relationship. Marriage is a part of God’s customary grace. Marriage serves three basic motives- companionship, procreation and redemption. The custom of marriage also works as a vigorous tool to set gender roles. Ceremonial observance in marriage marks a major life stone in an individual’s life that purifies the consciousness. Marriage is a divine ritual that marks the unification of soul and body. Marriage develops cognizance from thinking about oneself to thinking about family and others. Marriage is a spiritual voyage of one essence in two frames. It comes up with a powerful support structure as it grants individual to approach more resources. Marriage upholds important ideas such as trust, loyalty, sacrifice, and collaboration. In this way marriage elevates the human mind and soul as it is an association of tolerance and sacrifice and care for each other.