There was a time when every action was judged by morality, modesty, and cultural values. Those who defied these norms faced social condemnation. Interactions between the sexes were closely monitored, and love before marriage, extra-marital affairs or any deviation from accepted morals was strongly frowned upon. Children were raised with care, love, and also strict discipline. Any behavioral change drew immediate attention. Schools upheld moral standards, with principals and teachers closely monitoring conduct and working with parents to address issues. Even school gates were guarded to ensure control. Moral science wasn’t just a subject in the curriculum — it was embedded in the school environment and daily conduct, with emphasis on character development and personal accountability.
Attraction between individuals has always existed — it is natural. However, in earlier times, love was taken seriously and typically culminated in early and sincere marriage commitments. Marriage was seen as a bond of responsibility and mutual growth. Traditions — especially religious ones — helped uphold modesty and set boundaries to protect both individuals and families.
Partners worked to honour their marital duties, viewing challenges as part of the journey. Divorce was rare, as people were committed to making marriage work. Education and careers continued after marriage. Many renowned individuals across communities pursued higher education from school to phd levels, even achieving multiples degrees and careers at an early age even after marriage and achieved great success after settling down.
In some cases, marriages were performed early, but the bride’s vidai (farewell) was delayed until both partners were mature enough to take on responsibilities — a sign of the deep commitment embedded in such unions.
With the advent of modernity came a shift in values and perceptions. Philosophies like “Nothing is good or evil, only thinking makes it so” and “My life, my rules” “Zindagi na milegi dobara” began to dominate. The idea of personal freedom was interpreted in ways that blurred the lines between modesty and immodesty.
Acts once considered immoral became normalised and justified. Education became more about securing a high-paying job than building character or contributing to society.
Adultery, masturbation, live-in relationships, and "situationships" are often seen as ways to avoid the commitment of marriage and family life. Some view marriage as outdated, fearing judgment for marrying early without "testing" compatibility. Yet even after long-term relationships, many still struggle to find lasting fulfillment—raising the question: do tested or untested relationships truly lead to different outcomes?
Extra-marital affairs are increasingly accepted as “alternatives” when marriages face challenges. The fear of long court proceedings, alimony, and property disputes pushes some toward illicit relationships rather than seeking legal closure. This weakens the family structure, harms innocent children born from such unions, and damages the moral fabric of society.
Weddings today are so costly they often require years of saving or even loans, leading many to delay or avoid marriage. Meanwhile, addictions to alcohol, drugs, mobile phones, and video games drain the mind of constructive thoughts, leaving many young people immature and unwilling to take on real responsibility or pursue meaningful success.
Spiritual awareness is often suppressed in favour of pursuing carnal desires without accountability. Parents, influenced by modern trends themselves, sometimes view the legitimate bond of marriage as a burden for both themselves and their children. Yet, they seem indifferent when their children engage in multiple, casual relationships at a young age—relationships that cross moral and humane boundaries. Such temporary and uncommitted relationships cause emotional distress and create obstacles not only for individual growth but for society as a whole.
Immoral and filthy publications, obscene and vulgar films, liquor, drugs, licentious club houses all are normalised considering being a part of modernity, development, entertainment. Many movies today seem designed to promote modern ideals, leading youth into fantasy and away from reality and purpose. Detached from truth, they become easy tools for spreading corruption and indecency instead of becoming social reformers. Those in power appear to allow this by avoiding censorship.
Modernity is not inherently wrong. The issue lies in the selective and misguided adoption of its traits. Crime rates, as shown in National Crime Records Bureau data, are rising sharply. Even a brief look at daily newspapers confirms this troubling trend.
Experience shows that many people find true motivation, stability, and progress in their careers and lives after entering into a responsible, modest, and moral marriage. When relationships are built on genuine love and commitment to one’s partner and children, they foster maturity and a deeper sense of purpose in life.
Laws alone are not always effective; in some cases, they can become more of a burden than a benefit. For example, laws regarding property ownership after marriage can create difficulties for couples, especially for those who already own property. The decision to make a spouse a shareholder in one’s property should depend on the trust and behavior of the partner, not be mandated by law. Marriage should not rest on the foundation of wealth, but on mutual respect and understanding. Before enacting laws on personal matters, the government should conduct thorough and honest surveys to understand the real needs of society.
Censorship boards should take an active role in regulating films that promote vulgarity, immodesty, and licentiousness. Pornographic websites should be banned entirely, and social media platforms must be monitored to identify and remove shameful content promptly.
In education, students should be trained to develop strong morals and good character to contribute effectively to the nation-building process. Moral education should be integrated into all subjects, particularly social studies, whose main goal is to shape students into responsible citizens. The behavior of children both individually and collectively in school should reflect the values taught through moral education.
Parents must fulfill their role as guides and not just be friends to their children. Love and support should go hand in hand with discipline and supervision. Even when it is challenging in today’s fast-changing world, parents should continue to guide their children on the right path, rather than dismissing the younger generation as flawed. It is natural for youth to sometimes lose their way, but it is the responsibility of the older, mature generation to help them find their direction by sharing wisdom and experience.
God has endowed every person with an inherent understanding of right and wrong, morality and immorality. Within us exists a constant struggle between carnal desires and the principles of ethical conduct. Each individual must awaken their self-awareness and consciously choose what is right. The phrase Zindagi na milegi dobara (you only live once) does not imply that life is meant solely for fun and indulgence. This profound creation by the Creator, with each being serving a distinct purpose, indicates that mankind was created for a higher and more meaningful purpose—far beyond merely wasting life in the pursuit of selfish desires in any way possible.
A strong faith in God and the awareness of being accountable to Him are powerful forces that help fulfill this purpose. This is where religion plays a vital role. Individuals can cultivate self-consciousness and lead a modest, meaningful life—even in the complexities of the modern world by following divine guidance as way of life.
