In a revealing conversation that's sparking nationwide discussion, renowned matchmaker Sima Taparia from Indian Matchmaking fame has shared compelling insights about why marriage remains relevant in contemporary society. During her appearance on The Ranveer Show, Taparia emphasized that marriage provides essential companionship that becomes particularly vital as people enter their 40s and 50s.
The Essence of Marriage Beyond Rituals
Marriage transcends ceremonial rituals and serves as a foundation for lifelong companionship, according to Taparia. The celebrity matchmaker explained that having someone to share thoughts with and stand by during both joyful and challenging times forms the core of marital bonds. "Marriage is needed in happiness and sorrow. Companionship becomes very important after the 40s and 50s," Taparia stated during the November 29, 2025 interview.
She elaborated that while younger years might focus on enjoyment and social activities, the need for meaningful connection grows with age. "Earlier, it's just enjoyment, fun, going out and all, but after a while, you need someone at home to talk to, share your thoughts with," Taparia told the host, highlighting the evolving nature of relationship needs throughout life stages.
Expert Perspectives on Marriage Timing
While Taparia advocates for marriage's importance, relationship experts stress that the decision to marry should remain personal rather than influenced by external pressures. Gurleen Baruah, an occupational psychologist and executive coach at That Culture Thing, emphasized that there isn't a predetermined age for achieving life milestones like marriage or having children.
"Many people make these decisions when they are younger, and that's perfectly fine if they are ready and feel fulfilled. The key point is that these decisions should be based on personal readiness rather than pressure imposed by others or societal norms," Baruah told indianexpress.com.
Baruah further explained that determining your own timeline for significant life events is crucial for personal empowerment and mental wellbeing. She noted that while society often suggests ideal ages for milestones like marriage, these are human-made constructs that shouldn't dictate individual choices.
Nurturing Real Companionship in Modern Marriages
Psychotherapist and life coach Delnna Rrajesh supported Taparia's emphasis on companionship while warning against marriages becoming purely transactional. "So many marriages today become transactional. Conversations are reduced to bills, chores, logistics, and schedules. Slowly, friendship disappears, and only function remains," Rrajesh observed.
Real companionship thrives when couples share inspiring conversations rather than merely surviving together, according to the expert. She emphasized that simple gestures like hugs, holding hands, or affectionate touches play a significant role in maintaining emotional connections between partners.
Rrajesh recommended that couples "make space to play, laugh, and learn together—not just plan" and see each other as individuals with evolving worlds. She noted that couples who actively nurture companionship often experience deepening love over time, characterized by maturity and authenticity rather than constant romance.
Practical Strategies for Strengthening Marital Bonds
Experts provided several actionable strategies for couples seeking to enhance their relationship dynamics:
Plan quality time together: Intentionally schedule time for each other through weekly date nights, shared hobbies, or brief coffee breaks.
Establish connection rituals: Develop daily routines like morning walks, checking in about each other's day, or meaningful evening conversations instead of screen time.
Talk beyond tasks: Set aside dedicated time to discuss dreams, fears, and lighter topics rather than focusing exclusively on bills and schedules.
Share responsibilities fairly: Equitable division of household and parenting duties reduces tension and creates space for companionship.
Maintain physical intimacy: Regular affectionate gestures like hugging and hand-holding help sustain emotional bonds.
Seek support when needed: Utilize extended family, babysitters, or professional help to create opportunities for reconnection.
Consider professional therapy: For deeper disconnection issues, therapy provides a safe environment for rebuilding communication and intimacy.
The insights from Taparia and relationship experts highlight that while marriage serves important companionship needs, particularly in later life stages, the decision to marry should align with personal readiness rather than societal expectations.
