ABSTRACT

This dissertation analyses the matrimonial ads in leading

newspapers ‘The Times of India’ and web portals such as

‘bharatmatrimony.com’, ‘shaadi.com’. It aims to look at what kinds of

desires and requirements are asked in the matrimonial ads to trigger

the formation of marriage market scenario. Adapting multisided

feminist perspective, the ads in newspapers and on websites are

analysed. Main part of this dissertation includes how brides are

commoditised in marriage market and how they are objectified by

giving their description in these ads. This dissertation also focuses on

how the caste and class factor are still paramount in the marital

search. Lastly, feminist analysis of these ads is provided by using

various feminist theories. After going through this analysis, it can be

deciphered that in 21st century also the idea of stereotypical bahu,

wife still very much rooted in Indian society.