Books and TV are key mediums for learning and influence, even as the internet has reduced their audience. Many people, especially housewives and girls at home, still enjoy them. In South Asian cultures like Pakistan and India, marriage holds great importance and is often seen as a lifelong commitment. Remarriage is typically viewed as taboo, but societal attitudes are changing. Second marriages are gradually becoming more common, not just in real life but also in popular novels and TV shows. But do these portrayals genuinely inspire people to remarry? The purpose of our blog, “Do Second Marriage-Based Novels and TV Plays Inspire People to Remarry?” is to explore how literature and television shape societal norms in Pakistan and India. We focus on the impact of social media and the internet.
The Influence of Literature and Media
Decades ago, before social media became common, novels, digests, and TV shows significantly shaped cultural narratives. Novels challenge traditional values, while TV shows highlight real-life dilemmas. These media forms powerfully reflect and sometimes shape societal behaviors.
When it comes to second marriages, novels and TV shows explore different perspectives, highlighting the emotional challenges that come with remarriage. They often portray it as a solution for loneliness, societal pressure, or a pathway to personal growth. For instance, remember the TV play “Aanch”? It aired in the late 1980s or early 1990s on PTV. It focuses on traditional family values, the struggles of the middle class, second marriages, and relationships with stepchildren. While these shows may not explicitly encourage remarriage, they help normalize the idea by portraying it as an effective and often rewarding choice.
Second Marriage Based Novels
Several novels in Urdu, Hindi or English literature explore the topic of second marriages, offering a variety of perspectives. These stories highlight the complex challenges and rewards of remarriage. Readers often find inspiration in these novels, as they resonate with universal themes like loss, betrayal, healing, and new beginnings. Those experiencing similar situations may find solace, hope, and encouragement in these stories. Especially when they see characters overcoming difficulties and finding happiness once more. Here are a few notable examples of second marriage-based novels:
1. Taqdeer
In Taqdeer by Ashfaq Ahmed, the story revolves around the lives of several characters grappling with their relationships and the societal pressures surrounding marriage and remarriage. It highlights the choices people make regarding marriage and remarriage.
2. Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan
A famous novel by Umera Ahmed, Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan, subtly touches on the subject of remarriage. It focuses on complex family dynamics, broken trust, and second chances in relationships. The story shows that while remarriage might be difficult, it can also provide an opportunity to start anew. Especially after experiencing betrayal or emotional hurt in the first marriage.
3. Shab-e-Arooz
This novel by Faiza Iftikhar highlights the emotional journey of a woman who remarries after losing her husband. The novel sheds light on societal pressures, the complexities of remarriage, and the internal conflicts that individuals face when deciding to marry again. It also shows how family support plays a crucial role in the acceptance of second marriages.
4. Shaadi Mubarak Ho
This Indian novel by Sundari Venkatraman, the protagonist finds love again in her second marriage. The story is simple and focuses on how societal expectations often place unnecessary pressures on women after an unsuccessful marriage. The novel is an inspiring read for those who may feel hesitant to remarry due to social or cultural stigmas.
5. Second Time Lucky
Anjali Banerjee’s “Second Time Lucky” is a heartwarming story of love and second marriage. The main character, having been disillusioned by her first marriage, finds love again in her second marriage. The novel deals with themes of self-discovery, healing, and the societal acceptance of remarriage. It also portrays the emotional and psychological transformation one undergoes when considering a second marriage.
6. The Other Woman
This English-language novel by Jane Green doesn’t focus solely on second marriages, but also on complex family dynamics that often surround remarriage. It gives a modern perspective on love, trust, and the challenges of blending families in second marriages. Which makes it relatable to both South Asian and Western audiences.
7. The Second Love of My Life
A beautifully written novel by Victoria Walters is about loss and love. This English novel tells the story of a woman who loses her husband and eventually finds the courage to love again. It offers a heartfelt narrative about healing and taking the leap into a second marriage.
Second Marriage Based TV Plays
Along with second marriage based novels, many TV dramas in Pakistan and India also explore second marriages. These stories and themes remain popular, which keeps the topic relevant. Additionally, these plays help break down cultural taboos and provide viewers with fresh perspectives on remarriage.
1. Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan
When we talk about second marriage based novels, one of the most compelling examples is Umera Ahmed’s “Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan”. This novel, later adapted into a popular TV drama. It tells the story of Saba, a woman wronged by her husband and in-laws. Despite the intense betrayal, the story takes an inspiring turn when Saba is given a chance to start anew with a second marriage.
The novel showcases Saba’s emotional strength and resilience in overcoming adversity. Many readers feel inspired by her journey toward healing and her choice to move on. Her portrayal of a second marriage offers hope that it is possible to find love and peace again after enduring significant hardships. Saba’s story encourages readers to believe in new beginnings and personal growth.
Such novels impact readers by reflecting real-life struggles. They offer examples of how to navigate similar situations. Whether it’s a widow, a divorcee, or someone whose first marriage failed, stories like Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan inspire readers. They encourage the belief that a second chance at happiness is possible and worth pursuing.
2. Mere Paas Tum Ho
The play Mere Paas Tum Ho, written by the famous Khalil ur Rehman Qamar, becomes one of Pakistan’s most-watched dramas and explores themes such as infidelity, failed marriages, and remarriage. It presents how relationships evolve after betrayal and shows that remarriage can sometimes offer a second chance for happiness, despite societal judgment. The audience’s response indicates that these themes resonate deeply, especially when they portray real-life complexities.
3. Dil Mom Ka Diya
This drama revolves around a man who is married to an arrogant and selfish woman. Her bad behavior forces him to consider a second marriage, highlighting the emotional strain and family conflicts that arise from such decisions.
4. Mera Saaein
In the second marriage based novels and plays, the story of Mera Saaein depicts a feudal lord who believes in having multiple wives and treats women as possessions. It explores the lives of his wives and how his second marriage disrupts their lives and creates conflict.
5. Bade Achhe Lagte Hain
One of India’s most iconic TV dramas, “Bade Achhe Lagte Hain” focuses on an older couple who marry for practical reasons rather than love. As the series progresses, the couple grows closer and develops a deep emotional connection. Which showcases that love can indeed bloom in a second marriage. The show was praised for its mature handling of relationships and the positive portrayal of remarriage.
6. Kasauti Zindagi Ki
This iconic Indian drama explores themes of love, betrayal, and second chances. It shows how circumstances can lead individuals toward new relationships and marriages. The drama normalized the concept of second marriages, even among younger couples.
7. The Bold Type
This American TV show features characters who deal with complex relationships, including remarriage. It presents second marriages in a positive light and offers an international perspective on modern relationships.
8. Friends
Although this iconic American TV show not only focuses on second marriages but also deals with themes of divorce, remarriage, and blended families, particularly through characters like Ross, who remarries multiple times. The show’s global appeal makes it relatable to South Asian audiences, too, as it normalizes the concept of multiple relationships and marriages in one’s lifetime.
Do Novels and TV Plays Encourage People to Remarry?
Yes, to some extent, second marriage based novels and TV shows influence real-life decisions, especially in societies like Pakistan and India, where cultural norms shape personal choices. However, the inspiration for second marriages from novels or TV plays can have both positive and negative aspects, depending on how the message is conveyed and interpreted by individuals. Here’s a breakdown of both perspectives:
Positive Aspects
1. Challenging Remarriage Stigmas
In Pakistan and India, second marriages, especially for women, often carry a stigma. Novels and TV plays that show successful second marriages can challenge these views and promote acceptance, helping widows and divorcees who feel pressured to remain single. For example, TV dramas like Bepannah (India) and Durr-e-Shahwar (Pakistan) illustrate how second marriages can offer emotional fulfillment and stability, challenging the long-held belief that remarriage should be avoided.
2. Promoting the Idea of New Beginnings
Life can be unpredictable, and not every first marriage lasts. Novels and plays about second marriages provide hope for those who have faced failed relationships or lost a spouse. These stories inspire people to believe in second chances, showing that love and happiness can be found again.
3. Providing Emotional Support
For those who have faced heartbreak or tough first marriages, seeing characters in novels or TV shows with similar struggles can be comforting. It validates their feelings and shows they are not alone. Stories of characters finding happiness in second marriages can inspire them to move on and rebuild their lives.
4. Highlighting Personal Growth
Many second marriage based novels and plays highlight personal growth through second marriages. Characters often become stronger, more mature, and more self-aware after their first marriage, making their second marriage more fulfilling. This inspires readers and viewers to focus on their own growth before starting a new relationship, which is a healthy approach.
5. Emotional Connection and Relatability
When readers or viewers see characters going through similar situations—such as divorce, widowhood, or unsuccessful relationships—they can emotionally connect with their struggles. For example, someone hesitant about remarrying might relate to a character’s journey of finding love again after a painful separation. This connection can inspire them to reconsider their own stance on remarriage.
6. Shaping Public Opinion
Media plays a powerful role in shaping public opinion and societal norms. TV plays attract a broad audience, including older, conservative generations with traditional views on marriage. As more dramas and novels embrace second marriages, they help normalize the idea, encouraging families and individuals to see remarriage as an acceptable and desirable option.
For example, Indian Tv play “Bade Achhe Lagte Hain” characters Ram and Priya illustrate that love can blossom in a second marriage, even when the initial union is built on practical needs. This portrayal can reduce resistance to the idea of remarrying for reasons outside necessity. Similarly, in the novel “The Space Between Us” by Thrity Umrigar, the characters face the complexities of second marriages. It highlights their emotional growth and the possibility of finding happiness again.
7. Offering Hope and Optimism
Second marriage based novels and TV plays often provide readers and viewers with the idea that there is life after loss or failure. Seeing a main character of novel or drama successfully face the complexities of a second marriage can offer hope to individuals who may be reluctant to open up to love again. When characters in books like “Second Time Lucky” by Anjali Banerjee or “Pir-e-Kamil” by Umera Ahmed find happiness in second marriages, it reassures real-life readers that new beginnings are possible.
8. Impact on Women’s Empowerment
Many second marriage based novels and plays focus on empowering women. These stories show female characters who take control of their lives after difficult first marriages. It shows that remarriage can lead to personal growth and happiness, rather than just being a societal obligation. For example, Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan by Umera Ahmed features a strong female character whose journey inspires many women to think beyond societal limits. It conveys the message that women can find love and dignity in second marriages, even after facing trauma or divorce.
Negative Aspects
1. Unrealistic Expectations
Second marriage based novels and TV plays often show 2nd marriages in an ideal way, highlighting positive things like finding true love or personal growth. However, they usually ignore the challenges, such as blending families, dealing with children from previous marriages, and facing social judgment. This can lead to unrealistic expectations, making second marriages seem easier or more perfect than they really are.
2. Oversimplification
Complex issues surrounding divorce or widowhood may be oversimplified, making remarriage seem like an easy solution.
3. Romanticizing Toxic Relationships
Some narratives may romanticize unhealthy dynamics in second marriages, leading people to accept similar patterns.
4. Pressure to Remarry
While these stories can provide hope, they may also pressure people into thinking that remarrying is the only way to find happiness or fit in. Some individuals might feel rushed to remarry due to societal expectations or the “happy ending” seen in books and TV shows, rather than making a thoughtful decision.
5. Overlooking the Realities of Divorce and Trauma
Many novels and TV plays may not fully explore the emotional and psychological effects of divorce or losing a spouse. While they often focus on finding a new partner, they can downplay the healing process needed before a successful second marriage. For some, this inspiration might lead to a rushed decision to remarry without dealing with past trauma, resulting in further complications.
6. Perpetuating Gender Roles
In many South Asian stories, second marriages, especially for women, often follow traditional gender roles. Women are expected to “settle down” quickly or appear incomplete without a partner, reinforcing the idea that marriage is a woman’s ultimate goal. This puts unnecessary pressure on women who may not want to remarry but feel societal expectations to do so.
7. False Hope in Fixing Problems
Some stories suggest that remarriage can solve emotional or financial problems from a first marriage. However, second marriages also come with their own challenges, and there’s no guarantee they will “fix” past issues. Relying too much on this idea may lead people to enter second marriages without fully understanding the difficulties they might face.
8. Misleading Conflict Resolution
Stories often resolve conflicts neatly, which can mislead individuals into thinking that real-life issues can be easily solved without effort or communication.
Conclusion
While second marriage-based novels and TV plays may not make everyone want to remarry, they are important for starting conversations about it. By highlighting the emotional, psychological, and social sides of remarriage, these stories help reduce the stigma around it. They can demonstrate that second marriages can be an effective and rewarding choice. In countries like Pakistan and India, where social expectations can be strict, these narratives provide a fresh perspective that celebrates second chances and personal growth.