Religion and Marriage In Indian Society: From Tradition to Modernity (Set of 2 Volumes)

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The institution of marriage has been regarded as the central feature of all forms of human society with which we are acquainted. It lays down the nucleus of society. It is one of the most important social institutions of not only India but the world also. Its importance is known since the pre-historic times. It evolved and developed with the socio-economic progress of mankind. Socially, it is an announcement of the new relationship. Since it is a demographic event, it has a great impact on social welfare. Needless to say, there are fascinating rituals and customs which are associated with marriage, right from the time of negotiation to the completion of marriage.

It is hoped that these volumes would be widely consulted by historians, sociologists, students, etc. in our own country and other parts of the world.

Usha Sharma (b. 1951) after obtaining post-graduation degree in English Literature from Panjab University opted for the teaching profession in 1976. She has a long teaching experience and has attended many educational seminars and workshops. She has to her credit a number of publications including Kashmir through the Ages. Women's Education in India, Rajasthan through the Ages. Development of Child in India, Cultural and Religious Heritage of India.

The word marriage has been derived from merry, literally meaning happiness and its equivalent in Hindustani is Shadi, a Persian word. Shad means happiness. So, it is quite evident that marriage leads to happiness and joy. The very concept of society depends upon kinship and marriage. Even in primitive societies, a compulsion was felt that people should live together and to the furtherance of human race marriage was the only means. The personality of man is incomplete without woman and on the other hand the perfection of womanhood is considered only when there is progeny. Undoubtedly, woman has always been considered a partner in the creative processes of the cosmos, and portrayed as an embodiment of every ideal, virtue and grace for man to admire and adore. Both are complementary to each other.

Marriage, frankly speaking, is a legally and socially sanctioned union between two opposite sexes, i.e., by bringing together the two distinctive halves of lives-man and woman. They are united like two plants that are uprooted from plots and transplanted into a new one. This configuration automatically accords status to their offspring and is regulated by law, rules, customs, beliefs and attitudes that prescribe the rights and duties of the partners. According to M.C. Curdy, "Marriage is a socially recognized union between a man and a woman that accords legitimate birth status rights to their children" Hence, institution of marriage may be regarded as the central feature of all forms of human society with which we are acquainted. It stands in an especially close relation to the family, consisting of parents and children. The social group rests absolutely on the institution of marriage, which is as old as the dawn of civilization. Strictly speaking, marriage and family are two sides of the same coin, as without one, the other cannot exist. It is a demographic phenomenon.

Book's Contents and Sample Pages