The age at which individuals in Pakistan get married can vary widely depending on a range of cultural, economic, and social factors. Here are some reasons why marriages might be delayed in Pakistan:
Educational Pursuits: Many young people in Pakistan prioritize their education and may delay marriage to complete their studies, especially higher education. This is particularly true for women who are increasingly pursuing higher education and careers.
Economic Considerations: Economic factors play a significant role in the timing of marriage. Young people and their families often want to ensure financial stability before getting married, which can lead to delays in marriage until they have stable incomes and can afford the associated expenses.
Urbanization: As more people move to urban areas for education and employment opportunities, they may delay marriage due to the demands and cost of urban living. Urbanization can also lead to changing social norms and values regarding marriage.
Changing Social Norms: In urban areas, changing social norms and increased exposure to Western culture can influence attitudes toward marriage. Some individuals may choose to delay marriage to enjoy more personal freedom and independence.
Arranged Marriages: In Pakistan, arranged marriages are still common. In such cases, the timing of marriage may depend on factors such as finding a suitable partner, negotiations between families, and astrological or cultural considerations.
Legal Age of Marriage: The legal age for shaadi in Pakistan is 18 for males and 16 for females. The law aims to prevent child marriages, which were relatively common in the past. Compliance with this law may delay marriages until individuals reach the legal age.
Cultural and Religious Factors: Cultural and religious practices and traditions can also influence the timing of marriage. Some families adhere to specific cultural or religious customs that dictate when and how marriages should occur.
Gender Roles: Changing perceptions of gender roles and increased emphasis on women’s empowerment and autonomy can lead to women delaying marriage to pursue careers and personal goals before settling down.
Family Considerations: Rishtay in Pakistan often involve the consent and input of extended families. Family dynamics and considerations, such as finding suitable matches or addressing familial expectations, can contribute to the delay in marriages.
Social Pressure: While there may be societal pressure to marry at a certain age, there is also a growing awareness of the importance of making informed and compatible choices in shadi. This can lead to individuals taking their time to find the right partner.
It’s important to note that the timing of marriage is a complex and multifaceted issue, and there is no single explanation that applies to everyone in Pakistan. Individual circumstances, personal choices, and regional variations can all influence when people choose to get married.