In the ever-evolving relationship scenario, both men and women seek several romantic, emotional, and mental compatibilities within their relationship. To understand the needs and preferences of these individuals, the Jeevansathi revealed their Modern Matchmaking Report 2025.
The survey, based on insights from over 21,000 respondents, highlights shifting relationship preferences among Indian singles. The findings indicate that men prioritise love and romance, while women focus more on compatibility. The report also sheds light on evolving attitudes toward marriage, financial stability, and parental influence in partner selection.
Canva
What did the survey reveal?
According to the survey, 47% of men prioritise love and romance when choosing a partner, compared to 29% of women. Instead, 39% of women prioritise compatibility, while only 11% cite financial stability as a key factor. Regional differences also emerged, with singles in Delhi and Mumbai valuing romance, whereas those in Bangalore emphasised compatibility.
The report also found that 40% of singles are open to moving abroad for the right partner, reflecting a shift in traditional expectations. However, 70% of parents prefer their children to marry in India or eventually return. The trend varies across cities, with Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore respondents more open to marrying an NRI partner, while Delhi singles show a stronger preference for people settled in India.
Canva
What do singles want?
Singles under 27 believe 27–30 years is the ideal marriage age. However, older respondents and many parents said marriage should happen when individuals find the right partner, indicating a more flexible approach to marital timelines.
The survey highlights a growing expectation for financial equality in wedding expenses. About 72% of singles believe costs should be shared between partners, while only 17% think the one desiring a grand wedding should bear the cost. Parents also support this shift, signalling a move away from traditional financial burdens on one side of the family.
While parents remain trusted advisors, decision-making power now largely rests with singles. Only 4% of respondents stated that their parents would solely choose their life partner, reinforcing the increasing autonomy of individuals in marriage-related decisions. Attitudes toward astrology in matchmaking continue to evolve. One in three Delhi respondents still consider kundli matching essential, while Mumbai singles prioritise personal compatibility over astrological alignment.
