In recent years, matrimonial apps, once the cornerstone of serious, lifelong commitment, have begun to resemble the casual, fleeting nature of dating platforms. This significant shift raises questions about the evolving dynamics of online matchmaking. Jeevika Sharma, a relationship coach, provides insights into why this transformation is happening.
The Rise of “Official Dates”
Matrimonial apps have increasingly become venues for arranging dates with parental approval, merging traditional courtship with modern dating practices. This evolution blurs the distinction between the two types of relationships, making it harder to differentiate between serious matrimonial intentions and casual dating.
Deceptive Intentions
A worrying trend is the exploitation of matrimonial platforms by individuals with deceptive intentions. Some users misuse these apps to seek physical or sexual gratification under the pretense of genuine interest, only to disappear later with excuses of mismatched vibes. This mirrors the deceptive practices often seen on dating platforms.
Lack of Authenticity
Despite background verification features, many profiles on matrimonial apps are not genuine. Users often face the same authenticity issues encountered on dating sites, where the information presented may not reflect the true nature of the individual.
Overzealous Pleasing
The pressure to make a favorable impression on matrimonial apps leads many users to go to great lengths to please potential matches. This often results in a facade that doesn’t accurately represent their true selves, causing confusion and disappointment.
Autonomous User Handling
Unlike the traditional approach where parents manage matrimonial accounts, candidates now predominantly handle their profiles. This shift dilutes the original purpose of matrimonial apps and aligns them more closely with dating platforms.
Immaturity in Communication
Many users on matrimonial apps struggle to engage in meaningful conversations about marriage due to inexperience. This often results in awkward encounters and failed connections, similar to those found on dating platforms.
Prolonged Dating Phase
A growing number of users seek to extend the dating phase for months, causing uncertainty and eventual disinterest. This prolonged period of indecision mirrors the casual nature of dating platforms.
Diverging Expectations
Differences in expectations also play a significant role. While some women advocate for early parental involvement, many men find this intrusive and prefer to disengage. This divergence echoes the flippant attitudes often encountered on dating apps.
Ephemeral Conversations
Interactions on matrimonial platforms often remain short-lived, with commitments to meet only made if a certain “vibe” is felt. This transient nature of conversations is reminiscent of dating apps, where lasting connections are rare.
Silent Disengagement
The phenomenon of ghosting is prevalent on matrimonial apps. Users often unfollow or block potential matches without warning, perpetuating a culture of silent disengagement similar to that on dating platforms.
Inappropriate Advances
Instances of unwanted personal inquiries or premature requests for commitment add to the discomfort experienced by users. These inappropriate advances further blur the lines between matrimonial and dating platforms.
Be Vigilant of Matrimonial Frauds
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has shared guidelines on its Cyber-safety and Cybersecurity awareness handle on Facebook to help users avoid matrimonial fraud. The video offers practical tips to stay safe online. If you are a victim of cybercrime, register your complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Case Studies Highlight the Risks
Case 1: Cyberabad Cyber Crime Police recently arrested Kommineni Vamshi Chowdary for allegedly defrauding a Hyderabad woman of ₹1.80 crore under the guise of a marriage proposal. Vamshi, who has a history of matrimonial frauds, targeted divorced women or widows on matrimonial websites, pretending to work for an American multinational and communicating through U.S. phone numbers.
Case 2: A 42-year-old insurance agent was arrested for duping over 50 women through matrimonial websites by posing as a doctor. One victim reported that “Dr. Aman Sharma” defrauded her of over ₹1 lakh, using fake names and photos.
Case 3: The Bengaluru railway police arrested Naresh Pujari Goswami, who allegedly cheated over 250 women on matrimonial sites by posing as a customs official or software engineer. Goswami, a native of Rajasthan, created fake profiles to lure women and their families into paying him.
Tips to Stay Safe on Online Matrimonial Platforms
- Verify Profiles: Always check the authenticity of profiles through multiple sources.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Do not share sensitive information until you are sure about the other person’s intentions.
- Meet in Public Places: Arrange meetings in safe, public locations.
- Involve Family Members: Keep family members informed about your interactions.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious behavior to the platform administrators and local authorities.
Conclusion
The merging of matrimonial and dating app dynamics reflects the evolving attitudes towards relationships and marriage in contemporary society. While these platforms continue to serve as tools for seeking companionship, their increasingly casual nature underscores the importance of vigilance and clear communication in navigating modern romance. As users, it is crucial to stay informed and cautious to protect oneself from potential fraud and deception.