Breaking Bonds

In good old days matchmakers used to be a key link between a would-be bride and a groom and their families. Now it’s a mobile phone. But too much of communication between the two sides sometimes proves fatal for a relationship. As the phones are switched off, perhaps for a long time, Saima Bhat asks if such break-ups will stop

For Imran, a doctor, even in the midst of autumn of 2016, it was like a heart-warming spring. The reason of joy was consent from his conservative parents. They had finally agreed to marry him to his childhood love, Nazia, 29, a contractual lecturer.

After being in courtship for more than a decade, it had become a challenge for him to convince his parents. Once the convincing part was over, Imran’s parents went to Nazia’s house and gave her gold ornaments worth Rs 10 lakhs and other related items.

Both the families were happy, finally. A few days later Imran’s parents left happily for Umrah. Before they left they decided to solemnise their marriage in August 2017. Imran and Nazia were on cloud nine.

The first few months were spent in partying with friends as the dream of years had come true. With time Imran and Nazia’s families came close to each other as the would-be bride and groom started shopping.

But as time passed, the chemistry between the two slowly started to wane. Everything was not fine. Nazia started to complain. The first issue she complained about was Imran taking her for granted and not giving her enough time.

As days passed, the complaints started mounting, but the duo managed to stay together. One day Nazia sought an appointment with a psychologist and asked her fiancé to accompany her. Imran agreed to go with her.

“Her complaints were giving us a tough time, so I thought it was good if we see a psychologist and seek advice. But I was shocked when she introduced me to the psychologist and blamed me for everything,” the young doctor said.

Stunned to see the series of events, Imran remained tight-lipped about the counselling and did not talk about it to anybody, neither to his family or friends.

The counselling session had no impact on Nazia as she continued to raise one or the other issue, says Imran without knowing he will receive another shock.