This Couple Tells Us How Arranged Marriages Can Be Happy Spaces Too

In an era where people are more bent towards looking for their own partners instead of opting for the traditional arranged marriage route, there are stories that show us how the concept of arranged marriage, with a lot of evolvement, can be a happy space too.

Yashi Sharma talks to SheThePeople about her marriage, how she continues to maintain her individuality proudly and why arranged marriages can be empowering too.

Arranged Marriage Story

“There’s more to marriage than just jitters and I learned there’s no one rule to make it work either. One thing I was certain of from the time I was mentally prepared to get married was not to let go of who I was, whatever the circumstance. I went the arranged marriage way and while I was apprehensive about my potential partner, I took time to find the one who matched my vibe. In times when marriage is a tricky subject, finding someone you can share a life with and grow amicably takes work, love, respect and patience.

I met Prince after I’d met a few men and I’d never connected with anyone the way I did with him. What linked us most was the way we communicated. I realised that arranged marriage could work wonders too if chosen wisely. I’ve always been unabashed of who I am and it was vital that he understood this and vice-versa. When it came to doing our shoots, I knew I’d want to be involved completely and not change my ideas because certain norms demand us to. I didn’t want to wear a gown and do it the regular way. Pantsuits reflect my traits and we decided we’d wear something which reflected our personalities. That’s how we came up with the vintage and grainy shoot. Prince was on board for not going mainstream too. I’ve always loved the empowerment that goes with pantsuits and added a veil to feel the wedding vibe.

In a world where we’re constantly told to do things a certain way, choosing to do the same things a different way feels amazing. It’s not about breaking rules, it’s learning there shouldn’t have been rules in the first place. We didn’t hire a planner and decided to plan the wedding together so we could understand each other better. I feel families coming together is great when everyone is supported equally; I’m grateful I have that.

The new age brides are no longer limited to just finalising lehengas. The wave of change is empowering and inclusive. People are adopting convenient approaches instead of age-old demanding traditions at Indian weddings. While we have a long journey ahead, in my short experience, I would advise young couples to know that it’s a support system which is super essential.”

As narrated by Yashi Sharma to SheThePeople.

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