These were the common complaints, weren’t they? After independence, with the rise of new job opportunities in different states, migration became inevitable. Families split, though not necessarily with acrimony. When parts of the family moved away, they experienced new freedoms. Obligations, such as caring for parents, remained, but decision-making, finances, and travel were now under their own control. As the modern generation would say, "they had space."

As families grew larger, with more mouths to feed and more children to educate, the strain on finances increased, often making it necessary for members to seek better-paying jobs elsewhere. Women also needed proper education and the ability to choose their own paths, within the broader family dynamic.

Consider the situation of children within the Joint Family system. Some might be exceptionally bright, aiming for professional courses, while others may not be as fortunate and end up toiling in the fields. This could create a sense of inequity in the distribution of resources. All these factors, and more, likely contributed to the gradual breaking apart of such families.

Today, we talk of nuclear families. For example, three sons in a Joint Family might each settle in different places with their respective families, managing their own separate homes independently.

The modern generation deserves admiration too. Girls are well-educated, with clear ideas about what they want to achieve in life. In nuclear families, both husband and wife may work, providing a dual income. This can lead to better education for their children and an improved lifestyle. They often split the household duties equally, sharing the workload.

Only advantages, right? Not quite. Children may not receive the same level of attention, and there are no grandparents to provide comfort and guidance during stressful times. The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is unique, and its absence may be felt. Additionally, arguments between spouses may occur more openly in front of the children, which can affect their sense of security.

Ultimately, isn’t it all about mindset? In both the Joint and Nuclear Family systems, the good can coexist. But it requires a broad mindset—flexibility, acceptance, mutual respect, and the willingness to adjust and work towards a common goal.

Is it possible to find a balance between the Joint and Nuclear Family systems? A "marriage" of sorts between the two?

I don’t wish to be controversial in any way, and if I’ve sounded that way, I apologize. Like everyone, I wish for peace and prosperity. Whatever works best for each family is what’s best.

Continued in 199. Lights and Sights - Part 1