In most cases, marriage often becomes a tight cage for women, restricting their freedom and independence. Society’s expectations burden them with traditional roles, looking down upon their desires and aspirations. From early on, women are taught to prioritize family over themselves. If they are financially dependent on their spouse, it further strips away their autonomy. On top of that, cultural norms demand their obedience and conformity. They are largely robbed off the ability to make a choice for themselves, have a space for themselves and live for themselves.
Kiran Rao and Aamir Khan have announced their separation after 15 years of marriage in 2021. In an interview, Kiran revealed that before they got married, the two were living together and they mostly tied the knot because of their parents.
“Aamir and I lived together for about a year before we got married, and honestly, we did it more because of parents. At that time too, we knew that it’s a great institution if you can function as an individual as well as a couple within that institution. I think the way you interpret marriage is important because it was for a particular purpose and this social sanction really matters to a lot of people. It matters to children,” Hindustan Times quoted her saying.
Kiran Rao further added that marriage puts immense responsibility on women who are expected to run the house and keep the family together while also maintaining their careers.
“I think the thing that we don’t talk about enough is how marriage tends to stifle especially women… There’s so much responsibility on the woman to run the house, to keep the family together… I took my sweet time so I didn’t have any worry about it. The thing is, Aamir and I were very strong and continue to have a very strong relationship as two humans. We are very connected to each other; we deeply respect and love each other, so that hasn’t changed, and so, therefore, I was not worried.”
She added that she wanted to live independently and grow herself. She’s thankful to Aamir for acknowledging that and supporting her. As a result, she didn’t fear divorce.
“I knew that I needed my space. I wanted to live independently, and I needed that to grow myself. I felt that it was for my own growth and Aamir acknowledged that as well and supported that… So I didn’t fear a divorce.”
Do you agree with what she has to say?