#FirstPerson: “To Look or Not Look 'Married'? That's The Question”
BY The WMG Bride | 18 May, 2016 | 8579 views | 3 min read
Thankfully, my immediate family understands, so does my husband's. The fact that we stay in a separate city by ourselves also helps. But time and again, I do have to engage in that occasional debate with my conservative Bua or other elders. Roaming around with khali haath which means no bangles or Choora (OMG) and God forbid if you forgot to wear your Mangalsutra too! A long one for special occasions and a short one for casual wear, but that means, only one thing - you cannot be caught without one! Some of you might like wearing it, and I have nothing against you, but this is just not my thing. I find it hard to tolerate anything around my neck, with all the sweat and hair getting stuck on it and all, so that's my reason. I'd prefer to make sure my husband is eating healthy rather than ensuring his wellness by adorning myself with a piece of jewellery or keeping a fast for him. This choice also, in no way means that my marriage is unhappy. But while some see it as being too modern, others find it downright disrespectful!
The thing is, most women work hard to make their marriages work, whether or not not they choose to wear stuff that symbolizes it. But with every judgmental nag about these so-called marital traditions, that entire intention is being questioned. Not decking up from head to toe in "marriage symbols" does not mean that someone is not serious about being married or being disrespectful, it's mostly just a matter of convenience! It's high time people in India understand that! Yes, things are changing, but very very slowly. Choosing to wear or not to wear anything that symbolises that you're married should be a personal choice, and not something that's forced upon you. Wear it or don't wear it for your own happiness, not for anyone else's.- By Sakshi Saxena (Long-standing freelance writer with WedMeGood)