Early marriage isn’t about conforming to societal norms; it’s about embracing life’s shared joys and challenges.
Sahil and Soumya Aggarwal at Rishihood University’s 10 Year Celebration
In an age where aspirations often revolve around career success and personal independence, marriage is increasingly delayed. The average age of first marriages in the U.S. has risen to 32 for women and 34 for men, reflecting our evolving priorities. The trend is also reflected in the urban suburbs of India. While this shift aligns with modern lifestyles, it’s worth revisiting the timeless benefits of early marriage-an option that offers profound sociological, biological, economic, and spiritual rewards.
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However, amidst the narratives of delayed commitments, the benefits of early marriage often go unnoticed. Far from being a limitation, marrying young offers unique sociological, biological, economic, and spiritual advantages backed by data, real-world insights, and personal experiences.
Marrying early creates an opportunity to grow and evolve together, strengthening the foundation of the relationship. Couples who marry in their 20s are more likely to share experiences that deepen their connection. Studies from the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia reveal that individuals who marry in their 20s report higher levels of satisfaction in their marriages compared to those who marry later.
My husband and I married young, and while we had our share of struggles, those very challenges helped us build a strong foundation. We’ve seen our opinions evolve, our careers take shape, and our relationships grow more profound with time. Each struggle became a shared victory, forging a bond that feels unshakable.
From a biological standpoint, early marriage aligns with the body’s natural reproductive prime. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), a woman’s fertility peaks in her 20s and gradually declines after 30. Men, too, experience a decline in sperm quality as they age. Early parenthood also benefits children; research from Harvard Medical School highlights that children born to younger parents are less likely to face health complications and enjoy more active, engaged parenting.
Couples who marry young often enjoy more financial stability in the long run. According to a study in the Journal of Financial Planning, couples who marry early are 30% more likely to build joint assets like homes or investments by their 40s, compared to those who marry later-starting young fosters financial habits that sustain long-term stability.
In addition, dual incomes during the early years of marriage allow couples to invest in significant assets and financial growth. Managing finances together teaches lessons in budgeting, investing, and planning that benefit the couple and their children.
Marriage is more than a legal contract; it is a spiritual partnership that nurtures the soul. Ancient wisdom emphasizes that intimacy is an essential part of our being for physical connection and emotional and spiritual growth.
The Journal of Marriage and Family notes that couples in committed relationships experience reduced anxiety, emotional well-being, and a sense of purpose. Early marriage allows partners to explore and grow spiritually together, creating a shared path toward self-realization and harmony.
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Many prioritize personal growth, career advancement, or financial stability before tying the knot, which are valid and thoughtful considerations. However, embracing this trend may overlook the unique advantages of marrying early. The Institute for Family Studies found that individuals who marry in their late 20s are less likely to face divorce than those who marry in their 30s, suggesting a sweet spot between waiting too long and rushing in.
The notion of a ‘perfect partner’ is misleading. From personal experiences and conversations with peers, relationship satisfaction depends more on effort, communication, and shared experiences than initial compatibility.
Early marriage isn’t about conforming to societal norms; it’s about embracing life’s shared joys and challenges. Whether it’s the opportunity to grow with a partner, start a family in one’s biological prime, or enjoy the financial and spiritual benefits of growing together, early marriage offers unique and fulfilling opportunities for those open to it. Watching my parents embrace grandparenthood while still healthy and energetic has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Their early marriage and their kid's early marriage meant they could experience the richness of family life across generations. It inspires me to appreciate the benefits of starting young for myself and future generations.
It’s important to note that the “right” time to marry is deeply personal and varies for everyone. What matters is deciding with clarity and intention. Early marriage is not about societal conformity but about rediscovering a path to deeper connection, shared growth, and generational richness. As we navigate modern priorities, revisiting this choice with open minds could enrich our personal lives and broader cultural fabric.
Would you consider revisiting the idea of early marriage, not as an obligation but as an option with immense potential? For me, it has been a journey of immense happiness that I wouldn’t trade for the world.
Soumya Aggarwal is Chief Operating Officer, Rishihood University
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