Getting divorced isn’t easy. It is emotionally challenging and above all else – life-changing. And even though getting out of your comfort zone is never a bad idea, calling quits on your first marriage is almost sufficient to make you want to swear off love for good. However, getting out of your comfort zone comes with some benefits as well. Just be patient. Falling in love is the easy part. But, making it work is a whole other deal. It takes time, courage, energy and devotion. Falling in love with the right person is one of the best things that can happen to us. You instantly start feeling better, and it shows. And once you start your new relationship, you will want to reconsider that pledge to singlehood you once gave. Here are some interesting facts, tips, and statistics you’ll want to consider the idea of a second marriage.
Second marriage in India statistics
- Of the total population that’s married 0.4% of the couples are estranged
- Of the total population that’s married 0.1% of the couples are broken up
- Around 6% of the total population is widowed
Marriages in India are governed by religions. These religions play an important role when it comes to making any important couple decisions.
And not only when it comes to marrying, but also in the key matters such as getting a divorce, separated or remarried. According to the population census, these statistics vary from religion to religion.
Marriage in Hinduism
Hindu marriage joins two souls in a sacred union. According to Hinduism, marriage is a sacred relationship and, undoubtedly, the most important of all the Hindu life-cycle rituals.
However, any marriage can be annulled or voidable by husband or wife on certain grounds.
Marriage in Islam
Muslim marriages in India are governed by the Muslim Personal Law, also known as Shariat, and according to its Application Act, both men and women have the freedom to remarry in case of a divorce or after becoming widowed.
Also, the second marriage is allowed without getting a divorce since Islam allows polygamy; however – a woman cannot have more than one husband at a time.
Iddat – the period of waiting
To get remarried, women of all ages must wait before consummating their second marriage. The waiting period in the event of divorce lasts for three menstrual cycles. The waiting period after the death of a husband is four months and ten days.
Marriage in Christianity
The Indian Christian marriage is legitimate if at least one of the parties is Christian. Another terms and requirements are:
- The bride must be at least 18 years old, and the groom must be at least 21 years old
- Two trustworthy eye-witnesses must be there to witness the marriage
- A licensed marriage performer must conclude the marriage
- The agreement between the groom and the bride must be voluntary and free
According to the Bible, marriage annulment is possible in two instances – when one or both parties commit adultery or when one or both of them abuse the other one.
On the other hand, divorce can happen for a number of reasons and is practised amongst Christians all over the world. A woman, as well as man, of any religion, can remarry without satisfying any religious ceremony.
Things to consider before saying ‘I do’ for the second time
1. Accept yourself
Some things won’t change. No matter how many times you get married. And that is because you are still you. No matter how many partners you had in the past, running away from yourself isn’t a possibility.
And the problems you had in your last relationship are likely to follow you into your second marriage.
That is why you need to work on your problems and try to overcome doubts, fears and other emotional issues that can come your way when trying to connect, love, and build a relationship that will last with your loved one.
2. Practice makes perfect
This aspect of the second marriage in India is the same as everywhere else in the world. Yes. Practice does make perfect.
This time you do have the opportunity to make things better. Getting it right the second time around will be much easier since you’ve learned a lot the first time around.
This time you know what works and what doesn’t. Use your second marriage as a chance to choose a better partner and be a better partner yourself.
At the end of the day, you owe it to yourself.
3. Second marriage is like a merger
No. It doesn’t sound very romantic, but – it is quite realistic. The first time around, you were starting from scratch.
However, when it comes to your second marriage in India, or anywhere else for that matter, it is like merging two businesses. Compromise is everything.
Remember this, and think about it before letting anxiety and fear ruin things. Maybe your potential husband has kids from his previous marriage. Maybe you do. And maybe you’ll have to leave your home country and move to Lebanon or some other country.
Whatever it is, you and your spouse will have to adapt. It is a process.
And it can be hard, but in the end – it will be worth it!
4. Talk to your partner and don’t rush things
Time isn’t running out on you. There is no need to rush things. And especially when it comes to your second marriage. You are smarter this time around. You need to do better. And that is why communication is so important.
Let yourself and your partner learn more about each other. Talk, but listen more. This way, you will be able to build a strong foundation for what’s to come and something that can and will last. Until death does you apart.