Nagpur is witnessing a troubling social trend in which newly married couples are facing emotional upheaval after one partner reveals a different sexual orientation only after the wedding. The issue, according to counsellors and social observers, is rooted in family pressure and fear of societal judgment, which often prevent open conversations before marriage.
In a recent incident from city, a woman who had recently married reportedly returned to her parental home within days of the ceremony. She is said to have overheard a conversation that raised doubts about her husband’s sexual orientation. When confronted, he allegedly did not respond, leaving her distressed. Her family later made inquiries that they claim confirmed her concerns, placing the marriage in uncertainty.
A similar situation emerged, where a well-educated woman married a man working in Pune. After relocating, she reportedly sensed emotional and physical distance in the relationship. Despite efforts to build closeness through outings and travel, there was no improvement in intimacy. Months later, when she confronted her husband, she allegedly learned the reason behind his continued detachment.
Such cases are not restricted to arranged marriages. At least one reported love marriage also ended in emotional turmoil after a spouse’s sexual orientation came to light only after the wedding.
Mental health professionals note that social stigma and rigid family expectations often pressure individuals to enter heterosexual marriages despite differing sexual orientations. In some instances, couples attempt to continue the relationship through mutual understanding and private arrangements. In many others, however, the marriages end in separation or legal disputes.
Counsellors stress that a lack of honest communication before marriage can lead to severe emotional consequences for both partners. They advocate for greater societal acceptance and open dialogue around sexual orientation to prevent such distressing situations.
Legal experts say that while these matters are often handled privately within families, disputes that escalate to court can involve allegations of deception or breach of trust, depending on the circumstances. However, they emphasise that each case depends on specific facts and evidence.
With changing social dynamics and increasing awareness about identity, experts believe that transparency, acceptance, and pre-marital counselling may play a key role in preventing such emotionally damaging marital breakdowns.
