Humanities and Social Sciences

2023; 11(6): 196-202

http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/j/hss
doi: 10.11648/j.hss.20231106.13
ISSN: 2330-8176 (Print); ISSN: 2330-8184 (Online)

Changing Marriage Customs Among Brahmins:

A Sociological Viewpoint
Jagat Raj Pathak
Department of Sociology, Mid-West University, Surkhet, Nepal

Email address:

To cite this article:

Jagat Raj Pathak. Changing Marriage Customs Among Brahmins: A Sociological Viewpoint. Humanities and Social Sciences.
Vol. 11, No. 6, 2023, pp. 196-202. doi: 10.11648/j.hss.20231106.13

Received: July 31, 2023; Accepted: August 18, 2023; Published: November 17, 2023

Abstract: This research examines the evolving marriage customs within the Brahmin communities situated in Birendranagar
Municipality 8, Khajura Tol, Surkhet, Nepal. The main objective of this research is to find out the changing marriage custom
among the Brahmin people in the present context and analyze the transformative shifts occurring in marriage traditions,
addressing key research inquiries pertaining to changing practices, societal ramifications, levels of satisfaction, and disparities
across different generations. To achieve this, a methodologically comprehensive approach is employed, integrating both
quantitative and qualitative research methods in this study. The research design encompasses a field survey, enabling the
collection of primary data, supplemented by an analysis of secondary data to ensure a thorough investigation. The participant
selection process executed through the application of purposive sampling, ensuring representation that aligns with the study's
objectives. The findings bring to light notable trends, including a discernible trend towards heightened liberalization, a decline
in the practice of dowry, the emergence of novel marriage forms, and a palpable inclination to eliminate the conventional ritual
of kanyadaan in pursuit of gender equality. 20 respondents have been chosen in this study. Among them 14 respondents are
selected female and 6 respondents are selected male. The synthesis of quantitative data and qualitative insights provides a
nuanced understanding of the intricate dynamics underlying these shifts in marriage patterns in study areas. As a contribution
to the academic discourse, this study not only furthers our understanding of changing marriage customs but also offers valuable
insights into their broader societal implications, thereby enriching the existing body of knowledge in this field.

Keywords: Society, Perceptions, Satisfaction, Changing, Marriage, Customs, Community

established a lasting bond between men and women.

1. Introduction Additionally, the aboriginal man did not possess a
rudimentary understanding of the ideal love that presently
Marriage is a social institution that establishes a legal and forms the strongest human connection between couples.
authorized union between a man and a woman. It Marriage is a universal practice observed in various forms
encompasses a set of rules and responsibilities that govern across different societies worldwide. In a typical scenario, an
their relationship. Marriage is prevalent in societies individual is not considered separate from the society,
worldwide and serves as a framework for regulating sexual emphasizing the interdependence between individuals and
relations and defining the roles of husbands and wives. the community. Numerous religions provide detailed
According to Pandey, marriage is a significant event that teachings on marriage, while Brahmins, in particular, follow
garners considerable attention, accompanied by various endogamous practices. Within Brahmin communities, sub-
ceremonies. To comprehend the evolution of marriage rituals, castes strictly limit marriage arrangements to occur solely
it is essential to understand their origins and the within their respective clans or groups.
circumstances surrounding them. The term "marriage" refers Mostly Brahmin follow the Kanyadan and sometimes
to a union between a man and a woman that extends beyond Swayamber marriage practices. According to Kanyadan
procreation and continues until the offspring become self- practices, a man receives a woman in the form of a gift at the
sufficient. It is clear that mere sexual instinct could not have wedding time. Marriage ceremonies among the Brahmin are
197 Jagat Raj Pathak: Changing Marriage Customs Among Brahmins: A Sociological Viewpoint

colorful and attractive. They last for several days with feasts married women to remarry and not remain widows for life.
and fun. There are several traditional phases of customs and Despite this progress, societal satire and criticism still hinder
rituals to be followed before Kanyadan. [11] their ability to pursue fulfilling lives in new marriages.
Marriage among Brahman and Chhetris is a faithful rule, The perception of marriage as the sole means of sexual
yet cheating is very frequently found. [3] Historically, men satisfaction for both genders is evolving. In contemporary
exhibited a sense of pride in having multiple wives. Among society, attitudes towards sex have shifted, with some
the middle-class landowners, it was not uncommon for individuals engaging in sexual relationships based on their
individuals to maintain five or six wives simultaneously. personal preferences and age expectations prior to marriage.
Meanwhile, the affluent and influential Ranas often had In the present scenario the marriage customs have been
numerous wives and concubines, sometimes reaching several changed in the Brahmin community because of the different
dozen. In such cases, adherence to caste endogamy rules was factors of society. So, this study focuses on the changing
not always strictly followed. Polygamous Brahman or marriage customs which occur in Brahman Society. Here, the
Chhetri men would take wives from various ethnic researcher delves into the intricacies of the following
communities such as Gurung, Magar, Tamang, Sherpa, research questions.
Newar, and others. However, they did not form marital 1) What are the factors and societal changes that have
alliances with occupational castes. contributed to the shift in marriage customs within the
Brahmin community in the 21st century?
1.1. Statement of the Problem 2) How does the evolving perception of marriage and the
Hindu literature, due to its ancient origins, retains diminishing significance of traditional practices, such
remnants of promiscuity that existed in prehistoric times. In as Kanyadaan, impact the empowerment and social
Southeast Asia, traditional marriages often follow a phased status of women in the Brahmin community?
approach, wherein a young couple initially resides with the 3) What are the implications of the changing marriage
bride's parents before establishing their own household. customs in the Brahmin community on the traditional
Nepal, a small mountainous country situated between China gender roles, personal desires, and individual freedoms
and India, is a diverse blend of cultures, religions, languages, of individuals within the community?
and traditions. With a population comprising various tribes 1.2. Objectives
and ethnic groups, there is no singular wedding style or
practice that prevails. The objective of this research is to find out the changing
In contemporary society, being unmarried does not carry marriage custom among the Brahmin people in the present
negative implications, but the responsibility of marriage is context.
emphasized for the girl's father due to concerns about the
girl's sexual morality and the associated dowry system.
However, Brahman and Chhetri families of higher social 2. Literature Review
standing and education deviate from traditional marriage The sociology of family, a new branch of sociology,
norms, which are now more prevalent among the peasant examines the evolving social institutions such as family,
class. [3] marriage, and kinship in different societies. It focuses on
In the 21st century, the Brahmin communities have issues like conjugal disorders, changing traditions,
witnessed a shift in their approach to marriage, deviating separation/divorce, and individuals choosing to stay single.
from traditional rituals and customs. Today's couples Marriage is widely accepted and supported in society,
prioritize personal desires and individual freedom over providing support, entertainment, and satisfaction to couples.
conforming to societal expectations. Women, in particular, However, in the modern context, families sometimes
refuse to live under dominance and are empowered to work experience breakdowns. [1]
and support their families. Unlike in the past, couples now Girls were married at an advanced age in the Vedic period.
have the legal option to live separately or pursue divorce if The precise age is not stated, but from the Avesta, we learn
they are dissatisfied in their marriage. The prevailing types of that maidens were usually wedded at the age of 15 or 16 in
marriages are love marriages and arranged marriages, and ancient Persia. The same was certainly the case in the Vedic
polygamy is no longer accepted. This signifies a changing period. The very term for marriage, carrying away of the
landscape where individuals fight for their rights and seek bride presupposed a post-puberty marriage, for it shows that
happiness in their unions. immediately after her mirage, the bride went to her husband’s
In contemporary times, the traditional practice of house to live as his wife. [2]
Kanyadaan, where daughters were given away in marriage, Karki (2014). The giving and taking of dowry as a
has diminished in significance. While men historically had wedding ritual is said to have become a cultural practice
the freedom to marry multiple women, women who around the mid-nineteenth century. It has been said that from
underwent Kanyadaan were restricted from remarrying, even the time a daughter is born, parents are concerned with the
in the case of divorce or widowhood. They were expected to problem of providing a dowry and that the dowry has become
endure a life of singlehood, often facing societal disrespect. the most important problem. Families that cannot afford to
However, societal attitudes have gradually changed, allowing
 Humanities and Social Sciences 2023; 11(6): 196-202 198

provide substantial dowries are said to be forcing daughters gift. Although foot-washing is not commonly practiced today,
to marry elderly men, married men, or illiterate young men to the ritual is accompanied by the recitation of Vedic scriptures
reduce dowry payments. by the bride's family's Brahman priest [3].
Prabhu (2000) stated that in dealing with the Hindu Bivaha,
we should use the expression “form of marriage”
conveniently to denote the method of consecrating a marriage 3. Literature Review on Changing
union. Traditionally various types of marriage were practiced Marriage Customs
in Nepal like Brahma marriage, Prajapatya, Arsha, Daiva,
Asur, Gandharva, Rakshas, and Pishacha marriage. The eight Intercaste marriage also plays a major role in challenging
mainstream ideas about marriage. Indeed, to break the caste
forms of marriage that were enumerated are:
system it is incumbent that there should be inter-caste and
1. Brahma: A form of marriage where the father bestows
casteless marriages. Intercaste marriage which was not
his daughter, adorned with ornaments, to a
allowed in a family is getting popular in this present context.
knowledgeable and morally upright man well-versed in [12]
the Vedas, invited by the bride's father himself. The result showed that the proportion of marriages with
2. Daiva: A form of marriage similar to Brahma, but the delayed cohabitation is declining for both males and females,
daughter is gifted to a priest who performs a sacrificial while the age at marriage celebration and cohabitation is
ritual with proper officiation. increasing for females. Although marriages are delayed,
3. Arsha: Father gifts daughter to groom after receiving cohabitation is celebrated earlier. The result also suggested
cows or bulls, adhering to righteousness (dharma) that one of the most important mechanisms for the rising age
without any notion of selling the child. of marriage for males and females is the diffusion of
4. Prajapatya: A form of marriage where the father offers education. [12]
his daughter as a gift by reciting blessings (mantras) Dowry is the money, goods, or estate that the bride brings
and showing respect to the bridegroom. to the groom's home in her marriage. It was designed to
5. Asura: A form of marriage where the bridegroom pays provide newlyweds security and basic needs but its meaning
money to the father or relative of the bride, implying a has changed. Dowry can now be defined as a forced financial
transaction resembling the purchase of the bride. and material arrangement to be given by the parents of the
6. Gandharva: A form of marriage where the union is bride to the parents of the groom as an essential condition of
solely based on mutual love and the consent of the marriage.
bride and bridegroom. Early widowhood with little possibility of remarriage,
7. Rakshasa: The act of forcefully seizing or kidnapping a particularly in the Indo-Aryan culture, is another curse upon
girl from her home, involving the bride's capture women. More than 1.6 per cent of the female population i.e.
against her will. 7,000 women were already widowed by 29 years of age in
8. Paisacha: A form of marriage where a man seduces a 1991. The risk of widowhood tends to increase with age.
girl who is sleeping, intoxicated, or mentally disturbed Only a small proportion of women are divorced or separated
through mysterious means. in Nepal. However, this rate has shown an increasing trend,
Arranged marriages are typical still in some places in rural Divorce rates also increase with age. [1]
Nepal with couples only meeting each other on the day of In most of the girls' cases rather than their parents, their
their wedding. However, in most places, there is a slightly relatives and neighbors are worried about their marriage and
modern twist on this tradition as both families set a date pressurize their family members. Relatives and neighbors are
before the wedding for prospective brides and grooms to more worried than the concerned person about their marriage
meet and talk. Weddings take place in the cities, especially in and the groom. So, this should be changed and parents should
Kathmandu, including more love matches though arranged focus on making their daughter educated, employed and
marriages are still in supreme power in the country. [8] independent instead of searching for a job holder son-in-law
Dr Mishra (1983) stated that one of the important wedding so that they can live their life fully without any limitations
rites is the Bagdan, a Ganesh pooja. The bride’s father keeps that are set by their in-laws and husband. [13]
a coconut, a betel nut and areca nut, sacred thread, and some Marriage registration act, 2028, (2018) Marriage concludes:
kernels in a Kalash or pot. He holds the Kalash above his Except otherwise prohibited to get marriage pursuant to
head and declares he is giving his daughter away to the son prevailing law, the following male and female may conclude
of whoever the groom’s father is. He then hands the Kalash marriage pursuant to this act, In case any of male or female
over to his future son-in-law as a spiritual and metaphorical doesn’t have husband or wife, one of the male or female has
gift for his daughter. not gone mad, and both male and female have completed the
During the Kanyadaan ceremony, the bride is highly age of twenty.
regarded and symbolizes great blessings for her parents. The
bride and groom sit on a bed provided by the bride's parents, 4. Methodology
with their legs immersed in a copper or silver vessel. The
parents and close relatives of the bride wash the feet of the A quantitative, as well as qualitative research method, has
couple using a small bowl or silver spoon, presenting it as a been used in this study. The primary data related to changing
199 Jagat Raj Pathak: Changing Marriage Customs Among Brahmins: A Sociological Viewpoint

marriage custom among Brahmin peoples. The survey was supported certain changes, they were still inclined to
done among 20 respondents of study that have been data maintain cultural traditions such as bowing to their husband's
collected using participant field observation and semi- feet and taking responsibility for their husband's tasks. The
structured interviews with different generations of people majority of respondents emphasized the importance of
who were available in the family as a sample to know the marriage as a means to share life's challenges. However, a
customs they followed during their marriage. Also, the study few participants expressed negative views, considering
was organized with some unmarried people as a sample and relationships as self-centered and solely focused on fulfilling
find out what they think of marriage and its changing pattern. personal desires.
A general field survey was conducted among 20 respondent
which migrated from different geographical locations. The 5.1. Changing Patterns of Marriage in Brahmins People
secondary data have been collected through archival Marriage patterns in Nepal are undergoing significant
document such as book, journal, articles and online document. changes, encompassing Brahmins as well. Brahmins can be
divided into two categories: orthodox and liberal families,
5. Result based on their acceptance of marriage rules. Orthodox
Brahmins, despite their high level of education, do not
This study was based upon the data generated from an approve of inter-caste marriages. They adhere to the rules
interview and field survey carried out among the married and prescribed by Manusmriti and the Legal Code of 1854
unmarried males and females of the Brahmin communities. enacted by Jung Bahadur Rana, which emphasize clan
The survey was done among 20 respondents based on the exogamy and caste endogamy. On the other hand, liberal
pre-designed set of questions. The main motive of the Brahmin families do not restrict or discourage their children
questionnaire and interview was to gather information about from marrying based on their personal preferences.
the perspective of people toward marriage and the change Brahmins, particularly the Tagadhari, who have been
which took place from the ancient period to now. Most of the followers of the Vedic religion since ancient times, have
people showed a positive response towards the change in traditionally practiced Vedic rituals. The Vedic religion
marriage rituals. places importance on four types of marriage: Brahma, Daiba,
Table 1. Sex Distribution of the Respondents. Arsha, and Prajapatya. These marriages involve performing
Vedic rituals such as prayers and offerings to various deities,
Number of Percentage of the
S. N. Sex
Respondents Respondents (%)
Remarks seeking their blessings. Key rituals, including kanyadana
1 Female 14 70 (giving away the bride), saptapadi (seven vows), and lajahom
2 Male 6 30 (offering of puffed rice), are conducted in front of a sacred
3 Total 20 100 fire, as fire is considered the supreme deity. Thus, a marriage
Source: Field Survey, 2023 is deemed incomplete without the presence of a consecrated
fire, and these rituals symbolize an unbreakable bond.
The survey included respondents, with 70% of the Marriage, a Brahmin woman becomes a part of her
participants being females and 30% being males. They husband's gotra (clan) and there is no ritual in Aryan society
cooperatively shared their perspectives. The findings to bring her back to her father's gotra. Furthermore, societal
revealed that females perceive marriage as a loving emphasis is placed on parental agreement, reflecting respect
partnership where two individuals choose to spend their lives and responsibility towards one's parents. Additionally,
happily together. They view it as a socially, religiously, and Brahmins always remain mindful of their caste and gotra,
legally accepted ritual that enables cohabitation and considering them as important aspects of their identity.
reproduction. Participants emphasized the significance of However, the younger generations of today are
marriage in life, considering it an essential factor and a increasingly independent and often unresponsive to their
spiritual bond. They recognized that marriage abides by family's expectations. They perceive the traditional marriage
societal rules and represents society's approval for living rituals as lacking significance and possess a short-sighted
together. Overall, marriage is seen as a strong bond, a perspective. They believe that gotra (clan) and caste hold no
commitment, and a dedication that establishes a family life. meaning when deeply in love with someone. Many engage in
cohabitation and establish relationships before formal
Table 2. Respondents of material status.
marriage, a practice prevalent in Mongoloid societies. Ethnic
Respondents of Marital Percentage of the groups are now adopting Brahmin culture and customs,
S. N. Remarks
Status Respondents (%)
aspiring for a cultured society, while Brahmins, in turn,
1 Married 10
2 Unmarried 10 emulate Mongoloid culture. The primary catalyst behind this
3 Total 20 shift is the younger generation of Brahmins seeking freedom
and rejecting the rigid boundaries of purity and pollution.
Source: Field Survey 2023
The cohabitation trend poses significant challenges for
The survey included both married and unmarried women and society as a whole. Initially, couples may live
individuals, and it revealed that while most females together as siblings and eventually transition into an
unofficial husband-wife relationship without formal marriage.
 Humanities and Social Sciences 2023; 11(6): 196-202 200

When a woman becomes pregnant, the male partner often In the 21st century, Brahmins no longer adhere to every
abandons her, leaving her solely responsible for the ritual and tradition of marriage as their ancestors did.
consequences. Instead of finding happiness in their Marriage is viewed as a lifelong relationship, where partners
cohabitation, these relationships create hardships for women. support each other through joy and sorrow. However, today's
In the present context, traditional folk songs or "Lok couples are less willing to compromise their desires, and
Dohori" are being replaced with different Hindi item songs women are no longer willing to live their lives under
like "Munni Badnam Hui" or "Sheila Ki Jawani," as well as dominance. Previously, married women were confined to
other English songs. During marriage ceremonies, the household duties within the confines of their homes, but now
customary four-hour rituals accompanied by four pandits they are free to work and earn independently, showcasing
have given way to a changing trend where the rituals are their capabilities and leading their families.
condensed into a shorter duration with a single pandit. The marriage ceremony commences with Swoyamvara,
Nowadays, people perform four rounds of the sacred fire meaning "Choosing the Groom by the Bride." In the past, the
instead of the traditional seven rounds. bride had the right to select a groom from among many
suitors, rather than solely accepting her parents' choice,
5.2. Changes That Are Found in the Marriage Pattern of which is more common today. Various rituals are performed
Brahmins at the mandap, with the priests conducting worship (puja).
With reference to interviews conducted, numerous changes The couple takes their wedding vows as directed, while a
in marriage patterns in the present context have been white cloth called "lagangantho" is tied around them before
highlighted. In most cases, families no longer play a they circumambulate the holy fire seven times. Fire is
significant role in the selection of their children's partners. considered a witness to the sacred matrimony, purifying their
There is a lack of interest in adhering to lengthy marriage union and protecting them in the future. By circling the fire
rituals, despite each event holding its own significance. Court seven times, the couple pays homage to the seven great sages,
marriages have gained popularity, wherein the marriage who, in mythology, are believed to be the progenitors of
certificate does not incorporate the girl's gotra (clan), human beings on earth. However, in the present time, most
symbolizing a physical but not ritualistic union. Although couples only circle the holy fire three times.
couples engage in rituals during the marriage ceremony, they 5.3. Society's Impact and Future Desires for Marriage
often display carelessness in their practical lives. Customs
People now prioritize feasts, drinks, and parties over
customs and traditions. The trend of blending Nepalese and Societies hold a significant role in facilitating diverse
Indian wedding cultures is on the rise, with pre-wedding changes, and the Brahmin community is experiencing
ceremonies such as Mehendi, Haldi, and sangeet taking place. multiple transformations that greatly impact its culture. The
The mother of the groom no longer receives the traditional erosion of cultural values and the potential disappearance of
Janti (ceremonial procession) when her son brings the bride the distinctive Brahmin identity are becoming evident.
home after completing the marriage rituals. Nowadays, Presently, inter-caste marriages are highly favored, posing
mothers themselves participate in Swoyambar (bride challenges to the preservation of pure Brahminism in the
choosing) and Janti. There is a growing concern about dowry future. Marrying within the same lineage, known as "gotra,"
and acquiring assets from the bride's family. The practice of a has already shown harmful consequences for future
bride wearing the traditional thulo tilhari (ornament) around generations.
her neck for sixteen days, until the completion of the Experts offer differing perspectives on the unfolding
sohradine sahit (post-wedding rituals) and her return from her changes within the Brahmin community. While one argues
father's home, is no longer followed. Additionally, it is that these changes lead to fragmentation, another believes
observed that some girls from the bride's side consume that evolving marriage patterns foster social cohesion by
alcohol, which is considered impure in the Brahmin expanding social relationships. Acceptance of relatives from
community. different castes through inter-caste marriages contributes to
In the Hindu system, if marriages are believed to be made the minimization of caste-based discrimination.
in heaven, it stems from the notion that celestial bodies In a conversation, Garima Sharma (change name), a
influence major life events through stars, planets, and moons. respondent, highlighted the anticipation of future changes.
Strong devotion to astrology and ritual aspects of the Vedas, She is a newly married 21 years old woman. She was
Holy Scriptures, reinforces this belief system. A Pandit educated. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing
(priest) determines an auspicious date or Subha Sahit, taking the interests and choices of daughters. Garima expressed
into account the influences of celestial bodies on the bride a strong desire to eradicate the dowry system while
and groom based on their birth dates and times. Fixing the maintaining cultural values. She also emphasized the need
date concludes a lengthy and intricate process that involves to limit extravagant displays of wealth and ensure equal
activities like matching kundalis (birth charts) and comparing opportunities for individuals from various social classes to
ancestral lineages (gotras) of the couple. Marriages within arrange their children's marriages without undue pressure.
the same gotra, spanning up to five or six generations, are The majority of respondents expressed a desire for equal
considered impure and unhealthy. rights for females, in parity with their male counterparts. They
201 Jagat Raj Pathak: Changing Marriage Customs Among Brahmins: A Sociological Viewpoint

believe that all family members are equal, and therefore, inter- Brahmins in Nepal based on interviews and field surveys
caste marriages, including marriages with individuals from with 20 respondents. The findings reveal a positive response
lower castes, should be respected and accepted. If individuals towards evolving marriage rituals. Orthodox and liberal
choose not to enter into any relationship, they should have the Brahmin families exhibit different views on inter-caste
right and respect to live alone or seek divorce. marriages, with younger generations challenging traditional
The importance of fair treatment between spouses in practices.
marriages was emphasized. Despite being referred to as a man's The significance of intercaste marriages in challenging
"better half," wives should be regarded as equals by both family conventional notions of marriage is highlighted. It is
members and society. Respondents noted the burden of crucial for breaking the caste system to promote inter-
household work often falls on wives, while their concerns are caste and casteless marriages. Despite being traditionally
neglected by husbands. To address this, it was suggested that all discouraged, intercaste marriages are becoming
females should have access to quality education and the increasingly popular in the current context [12].
opportunity to lead respected lives in society. Cohabitation presents challenges for women, and wedding
Both males and females should fulfill their responsibilities, customs have shifted towards blending cultures. Inter-
regardless of whether they belong to the husband's or wife's caste marriages impact Brahmin identity, and opinions
family, and actively participate in household activities. While differ on whether these changes foster cohesion or
wives tirelessly ensure their families' satisfaction throughout fragmentation. Respondents advocate for eradicating
the day, husbands take pride in earning money outside the dowry, equal rights for women, and equitable treatment of
home. Respondents stressed the significance of providing spouses. Preservation of traditions and societal acceptance
females with opportunities to pursue their aspirations and are also important factors. Overall, the study provides
establish themselves in life. insights into the dynamic nature of marriage customs and
Some respondents observed disparities in rituals and aspirations within the Brahmin community.
expectations placed upon daughters and daughters-in-law. While
a daughter is not allowed to perform her parents' death rituals, as 7. Conclusion and Recommendation
her brother does for 13 days following their parents' demise, she
is required to fulfill all the rituals associated with her husband's This study examines changing marriage patterns among
parents. In our society, in-laws are consistently prioritized, and Brahmin individuals in Khajura Tol, aiming to understand
daughters are often taught to prioritize their in-laws over their perception, investigate influencing factors, and explore the
own parents. Several respondents expressed disapproval of the evolving pattern within the community. Using purposive
practice of Kanyadaan, as it restrains females from performing sampling, both quantitative and qualitative research designs
rituals for their natal family, as brothers do. They called for were employed. Findings show a trend towards more liberal
change, advocating for equal rights for all girls, comparable to marriages with women seeking independence, while societal
their brothers. support and expert opinions on the effects of these changes
The respondents acknowledged the mistreatment of vary. Equality and understanding between partners are
daughters-in-law by Brahmins and Chhetriyas, who often emphasized for successful marriages.
view them as mere domestic laborers. They emphasized the Traditional Brahmin weddings are influenced by modern
need to change this mindset and treat daughters-in-law as demands, with support for change and the eradication of
daughters. Such treatment discourages them from remarrying. dowry. Marriage is becoming more liberal, emphasizing
They believe that marriage should occur through mutual freedom, love, and girls' choices. Decision-making involves
agreement and acceptance from society and family. kin, the state, and intermediaries. Social and economic
However, not all respondents embraced the changes that have changes impact arranged marriages at younger ages. Cultures
taken place in marriage rituals. They feel that these changes have diverse marriage interpretations. A new form
have diminished the charm of marriage. They wish to see the resembling Mongoloid culture involves couples living
charm of marriage restored to its ancestral significance and together independently. Perception of Kanyadaan is changing
consider the preservation of traditions and rituals as vital for for gender equality. Interviews show varying views on
future generations. Some respondents proudly asserted that tradition's impact. The researcher concludes that are as
wives should solely focus on household activities. follows:
Others acknowledged that societal acceptance is crucial for
change to occur. They believe that society filters which 7.1. Marriage Patterns
cultures should be followed and which should be discarded. 1) Orthodox Brahmins adhere to caste endogamy and clan
Consequently, societal norms and practices may vary exogamy, while liberal Brahmins allow marriage based
between different communities. A few respondents expressed on personal preferences.
a preference for the old culture over the present one. 2) Vedic rituals traditionally practiced by Brahmins
emphasize various types of marriage ceremonies.
6. Discussion 3) Younger generations challenge these traditions,
prioritizing love and personal freedom.
This study examines changing marriage patterns among
 Humanities and Social Sciences 2023; 11(6): 196-202 202

7.2. Cohabitation Trend [2] Altekar, A. S. (1997). The Position of Women in Hindu
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[3] Bista, D. B. (1967). People of Nepal. Ratna Pustak Bhandar,
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significance of customs and traditions. Formation in Nepal: Marriage, Cohabitation, and First Sexual
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1) Inter-caste marriages are becoming more prevalent, but
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2) Opinions differ on whether these changes foster social [7] Marriage registration act, 2028 (1971). (2018). Retrieved on
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(1971) - Nepal Law Commission.
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[8] Nadya, (2015). The Essential Guide to Nepali Weddings: Pre-
1) Respondents express the desire for the eradication of wedding Traditions. (n. p).
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[9] Pandey R. (1998). Hindu Samskaras: Socio-Religious Study of
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choose their preferred form of marriage while upholding legal Culture. (1st ed.). SAAN Research Institute, Affiliated with the
requirements. Modern cultures tend to favor their own marriage University of Colorado at Denver. Gairidhara, Kathmandu.
practices, but diversity should be respected. People should have
[12] Sharma, K. (2008). A Comparative Study of Inter-Caste
the freedom to choose their partners, and society should accept Marriage in Rural and Urban Nepal. A research report by
remarriage and individual choices. Respect for personal Social Inclusion Research Fund, SNV-Nepal, Bakhundole,
autonomy and happiness is essential, without imposing on others. Lalitpur.

[13] Thapa. I. (04/2079). Bibaaha Garne Aafu, Hatar Duniyalaai.

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[1] Acharya, B. R. (2006). Sociological Analysis of Divorce: A

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