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Saturday, October 5, 2024

Rethinking Societal Views on Unmarried Women in Pakistan

The recent statistics have spurred a sense of urgency, prompting many to advocate for action. There are calls to move away from outdated traditions and acknowledge individual choice.

The latest statistics, sourced from United Nations (UN) data on population categorized by marital status, have brought attention to an often-overlooked aspect of Pakistani society: the challenges faced by unmarried women aged over 35.

The striking number—exceeding 10 million—has ignited a nationwide dialogue, prompting reflections on societal attitudes and the necessity for change.

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While these statistics might surprise some, many in Pakistan are intimately familiar with the hurdles unmarried women encounter. In a society where marriage dynamics have grown increasingly intricate, it’s not uncommon to find households with one or more unmarried daughters or women.

The reasons for rejection vary widely, spanning socio-economic factors such as financial instability to more subjective criteria like physical appearance, age, caste, and educational background. These women often face ostracism, bearing a stigma that leads to profound isolation.

Even for those who do marry, the journey is often fraught with challenges. Pakistan’s patriarchal framework places significant expectations on women, requiring them to sacrifice inheritance rights, dower, and endure hardships in the name of family honor.

Experts emphasize the necessity for a shift in societal attitudes. Streamlining the marriage process and challenging unrealistic expectations—such as the preference for a “fair-skinned, educated, model-like” bride—could substantially improve the situation.

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Moreover, a nuanced understanding of religious teachings is essential. While the Holy Quran permits polygamy, it also presents examples that defy societal norms. For instance, the marriage of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to Khadija, a successful businesswoman who was 15 years his senior and a widow, challenges conventional perceptions. Almost all of his other wives were also widows or divorcees.

Beyond Islam, Hinduism’s practice of “sati” serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of societal pressure. Though Pakistan does not practice sati, ostracized unmarried women can feel socially dead within their communities.

The recent statistics have spurred a sense of urgency, prompting many to advocate for action. There are calls to move away from outdated traditions and acknowledge individual choice. Ultimately, fostering a more inclusive and accepting society necessitates a collective effort—one that empowers women to chart their own paths and find fulfillment on their own terms.

In an effort to address this pressing issue, the “Dil Ka Rishta” app has connected millions of people, boasting thousands of success stories where individuals found their life partners.

“Dil Ka Rishta” has emerged as one of the successful digital matrimonial platforms, thanks to its unique features, aiding people in discovering their soul mates.

Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the popular app generates suggestions based on users’ interests while ensuring maximum privacy.