The very thought which comes to my mind when the word marriage is uttered, are the vibrant colours all around, decorations, beautiful twinkling bright lights, mind blowing glittery clothes of bride, loud music, some gossiping aunties, giggling, laughing and pretty looking girls, staring them and flirting around boys, families excitedly posing for photos and video and last but not least mouth-watering cuisines. This is what a mesmerising big fat ‘Indian Marriage’are all about. Right from childhood I have been highly fascinated by marriage functions. For me it was a celebration and function where I could meet all my cousins whom otherwise, I would never meet them all under one roof.
As soon as childhood precipitated and I stepped into my youth, I got transformed into a beautiful butterfly, all thanks to my parent's genes. But every good thing comes at its own cost. Growing in Indian environment, cheesy boys teasing around and following me was unavoidable.And became a matter of concern for my parents along with me. I was never so bold as to handle such cheap boys. I would get nervous and shiver like a dry leaf. I could never revert to them with courage. My parents grew extremely perturbed about this fact which forced them to fix my marriage at an early age of 18 years. I was immature and childish. Mine was a happy family of two plus two, but my marriage was fixed in a joint family having dozens of people, all with different temperaments. After marriage, initially it became tough for me to cope up with everyone. Even a small criticism made me cry a lot. It was not that I was forced into this commitment.In fact, when I got the offer of my loving husband, I was blank and confused. I didn't know or understood how to react. But the thought of getting away from the vulgar street boys made me happy. I was blessed that my parents never forced this proposal on me. They were kind enough to take my permission and when I smiled and gave my consent, they were elated and proceeded further.

I never realised that marriage is such a huge responsibility. For me, at that budding age, it was a ceremony where I would get utmost importance. I would be getting preference over others for everything. Getting new clothes, new jewellery and I would be attended by everybody. Such thoughts made be blushed that I would be so special and in demand. I never knew that the real tests in life start after the marriage. It brought along with it many unknown and unexpected challenges. The initial dare was to mingle with all the members of my new family. I realised that it's just not the meeting of two people, two bodies and souls, but a union of two families. It taught me to be patient by every passing moment. My whole life changed. I changed from an obstinate girl to an adjustable woman. It wasn't easy, but then what is easy in life? Are any challenges known or meant to be easy ever? Most of the nights were spent crying remembering my parents as I was never away from them before my marriage.
As I was young and innocent the time I got married, I used to end up inviting new problems daily. It hurt to get emotionally and physically drained out especially with the family members. This kept me hooked up forcing me to think why I stepped into this mess.

In my family I was given first preference, but things changed. Maximum time was spent wondering if it was worth letting my freedom get curbed. Before I was like a free bird, but after marriage I felt like being caught and caged. I agree I was troubled by a few indecent boys, but at the same time I had freedom to speak my heart out. Now all my childhood tantrums were suppressed. In between all this mess, one good thing that happened to be was to have a hand on my shoulder supporting me and assuring me not to worry, things will get better soon. Today, I can confess I have a really understanding husband. His presence made all my pain worth bearing it. He has stood by me throughout facing all odd and even situations in life. His magic made all my pain converted into joy. I realised that true love does have a Midas touch. It can transform hardship into ease.

With passing time, I started understanding that marriage is an institution that works only if I let go of my ego and start adjusting to the situations. I comprehended that it was a journey which started with "me", but very soon the 'Alphabet M' turned upside down to get changed into 'Alphabet W'. Marriage according to me is a wonderful journey from me to we.

Life has changed after marriage, yes. But it has changed for good. So, as an independent individual, I certainly feel marriage is essential to lead a satisfied and a happy life. Why should we not enjoy such a fantastic journey? Without marriage I would have never learned and enjoyed the new phases of my life. I would have never known what it was to love a stranger to the extent that he now comes first in every aspect. I share my life with him including all my pain, tensions and happiness with without a second thought. When I see the empathy, he feels for me, I feel like I am the fortunate person on the earth. Without marriage this fondness could never have been felt.

I think, if it is a ritual set by the society, what is wrong in it? It's a wonderful feeling to share life with someone who loves you. Yes, love takes time to solidify but when it strengthens, it becomes an addiction. You can't stop loving your partner ever.

Today I am married for almost 25 years and hardly a second has passed when I have regretted it. It might have been tough initially, but then life teaches us a lot. It's better to live in love and die in the arms of a lover than remain as a lonely soul spending life aloof with none to share happiness and sorrow. Explore all the challenges in life. You will certainly celebrate it. Let not a few examples of black sheep hinder our commitments in life. Create your own stories and live it my friends. Commitments teach us responsibilities and it leads to a purpose in life. Let us enjoy this wonderful purpose of life. Believe me it is worth it.