Age is just a number: Growing acceptance of second marriages and late-life companionship among seniors in India | Bhubaneswar News

The landscape of matrimonial matchmaking in India, including Odisha, is witnessing a significant shift as platforms specialising in second marriages and late-life companionship report a surge in registrations, particularly among individuals aged 50 and above.Apart from the conventional matchmaking firms, many online platforms have emerged to help people who want to marry, say in their 50s. While there are several tailor-made websites and apps to cater to the needs of these individuals, most of the conventional matchmaking portals have created menus or categories to accommodate the needs of this section of the population.There are websites that specifically target individuals aged 40 and above. “We have seen a 40% increase in profiles of senior citizens seeking companionship over the last two years,” Chandan Kumar Nayak, the manager of a matrimonial and matchmaking firm operating from Bhubaneswar, said. “The pandemic particularly highlighted the importance of having a partner during life’s challenging phases,” he added.A 52-year-old businessman recently found love through a specialised matrimonial service after losing his wife to a disease. “I never thought I would find happiness again, but meeting my current wife changed everything. Our shared experiences and understanding make our relationship special,” the man, requesting anonymity, said.Nayak, a matchmaker with more than 10 years of experience, has seen a changing attitude towards late-life marriages. “This growing acceptance of second marriages and late-life relationships marks a significant shift in Indian society, which is traditionally known for its conservative approach towards marriage and relationships, especially among older generations,” he said.“Earlier, widowed or divorced individuals, especially women, were expected to focus solely on their children and grandchildren. Today, they’re openly expressing their desire for companionship. A few days ago, a 50-year-old woman approached me to help her find a man,” Nayak added.“Our data shows that compatibility in lifestyle, health considerations and family dynamics are primary concerns for senior couples,” Santosh Pani, an official of a matrimony site, said. “We offer detailed verification processes and specialized counselling services to older couples,” he added.Some of the companies that provide matchmaking services organise meet-ups and cultural events specifically for seniors.“As India’s population ages and social attitudes continue to evolve, the second marriage market is expected to expand further. The next decade will likely see even more platforms and services catering to late-life relationships,” Pani said.Krutibas Sahu, an official of a matrimonial site, said, “We get requests from men aged 50 and above who are looking for widowed women without children, divorcees and middle-aged ones. But some are ready to compromise if the partner works in the govt sector.” He added that such couples are looking for someone who enjoys similar hobbies, activities or travel plans, fostering a sense of mutual enjoyment and shared experiences.“Many of these marriages are arrangements of convenience,” U N Dash, a psychologist and a retired professor of Utkal University, said.But lawyer Prabir Kumar Das has urged caution as property disputes and inheritance issues can complicate second marriages. “Those remarrying should have clear legal agreements before tying the knot,” Das advised.