are still the cultural norm, the process has evolved into "arranged-love" marriages, where women have significant agency and "veto power" over potential matches. 3. The Professional Shift: Breaking the Ceiling
However, the structure of these families is shifting. While the "joint family" (multiple generations living under one roof) remains common in rural areas, urban India has seen a massive rise in nuclear families. This shift has given women more autonomy in household decision-making, though the "emotional anchor" role remains a constant. 2. Traditional Roots and Spiritual Life