Pramukh Swami's Advise On Marriage

In our increasingly independent, interactive and alluring society, social issues are burgeoning at an alarming rate. One particular issue that fragments the family is when a youth chooses to marry someone against the wishes of his or her parents.

A youth in London had decided to marry a girl who was not of the Gujarati community. His father and mother, both devotees, were pained and unhappy about his decision. Despite explaining to him not to marry, he remained adamant.

When Swamishri arrived in London in 1998, the father requested Swamishri to explain to his son. At first Swamishri was reluctant to do so because the boy did not know him. Finally, at the father's insistence, Swamishri called his son and advised, "As a satsangi you should understand as to how can you make your parents unhappy when they gave birth to you and raised you! If the girl really loves you, then has she accepted satsang? You have been friends with her for six years but has your influence changed her? Has she given up eating meat and drinking beer? Instead, you have started eating and drinking. She did not give up meat, and you are ready to forsake your parents! So, just think about it." Then Swamishri explained to his father, "I've talked to your son. Now he will do as it pleases him. You should imbibe the philosophy of the temporariness of this world (sankhya). Tell me, how many more years have you to live? So, engage yourself in bhajan (worship) and you will have peace and happiness."

Swamishri advocates that youths should always marry according to our tradition and with the consent of parents.

1998, London