How to Deal with 'Shaadi Kab Karoge?' After 25?

“Beta, shaadi kab kar rahe ho?” If you’re over 25, you’ve likely heard this question more times than you can count—whether from family, nosy relatives, or even the family friend who met you once at a wedding five years ago.
The pressure to settle down is real, but here’s the thing: being single isn’t a problem to be fixed. It’s a phase, a choice, or simply a part of your journey. If your parents are worried, that’s natural—they want the best for you. But explaining why you’re not in a rush to get married doesn’t have to feel like a battle. Let’s talk about the perks of being single and how to communicate them with love and understanding.
This is your time to shine! Being single allows you to invest in yourself—whether it’s advancing your career, traveling, learning a new skill, or simply figuring out what makes you happy.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“Mom, Dad, I’m using this time to grow into the best version of myself. When I’m ready to settle down, I want to bring my A-game to a relationship. Don’t you think that’s important?”
Marriage is a big deal—it’s not something to rush into because society says it’s time. Being single lets you reflect on what you really want in a partner and in life.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“Wouldn’t it be better if I take my time to find the right person, rather than hurry and regret it later? I want to make a thoughtful decision, not one based on pressure.”
Let’s face it: weddings aren’t cheap, and neither is starting a new life together. Being single allows you to focus on building financial security, so when you do settle down, you’re in a solid place.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“I want to make sure I’m financially stable before I take on the responsibilities of a family. It’ll make life so much smoother in the future.”
From spontaneous road trips to Netflix marathons without arguments over what to watch, being single means you get to do what you want, when you want. There’s beauty in that freedom.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“Right now, I’m enjoying life and figuring out what makes me happy. This is helping me grow as a person—and it’ll help me be a better partner someday.”
For many parents, marriage feels like the ultimate milestone. But success isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. It can mean a thriving career, fulfilling friendships, or simply being content with where you are.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“Success isn’t just about marriage. It’s about being happy and proud of the life I’ve built. Right now, I feel fulfilled, and that’s what matters most.”
The idea that marriage has to happen before 30 is outdated. Everyone’s journey is different, and finding love doesn’t have an expiry date.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“Times have changed. Many people are finding love later in life, and their relationships are just as strong, if not stronger. I’m not behind—I’m just on my own timeline.”
Being single gives you more time to focus on the relationships you already have. You can enjoy quality time with family, strengthen friendships, and build a strong support system.

• What to Tell Your Parents:

“Right now, I’m here for you and the family. Let’s cherish this time before I have new responsibilities. It’s nice to be able to focus on us.”

• Pick the Right Moment: Wait for a calm, private time—maybe after a nice dinner or during a relaxed family gathering.
• Keep It Respectful: Let them know you value their concerns but need them to understand your perspective.
• Use Humor to Lighten the Mood: “Don’t worry, Mom—I’m not running off to become a hermit or anything!”
• Involve Them in Your Vision: Show them how your current goals align with a long-term plan for happiness, which includes marriage—just not right now.
• Reassure Them: Let them know you’re not rejecting the idea of marriage; you’re just waiting for the right time and person.

Being single after 25 isn’t a crisis—it’s an opportunity. While family pressure can feel intense, it’s often rooted in love and concern. By communicating your perspective with empathy and confidence, you can help your parents see that this phase of your life is just as meaningful and fulfilling as any other.

And who knows? Maybe you’ll inspire them to stop worrying so much and start enjoying the journey with you. After all, life isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about living it to the fullest.