'We Call It Prostitution': What Live-In Relationship Means In India? Bihar Street's Heated Conversation Sparks Debate

A casual street interview in Bihar posted by the National Commission for Men India on X has ignited a fierce conversation on social media, after locals expressed polarising views on live-in relationships ranging from staunch cultural opposition to passionate defence of individual choice. This comes in link to recent comments made by Premanand Maharaj on 'women with character'.

One woman, dressed in traditional attire, spoke firmly against live-in arrangements, calling them morally unacceptable in her community. “In our culture, only married couples can live together,” she said. Comparing the practice to theft, she emphasised that marriage rituals, especially the sacred seven vows-are essential before a man and woman can share a home.

She didn’t hold back, adding, “Humare yaha isko dhandewali bola jaata hai” -which translates to, “Here, we call it prostitution”. In her view, women in live-in relationships “do not have morals” and such behaviour disrespects the guidance of religious leaders.

A counterpoint from the same generation

Her remarks were quickly challenged by another woman in the crowd, who argued that such views stem from a lack of exposure and education. “Only people with no education or no options can think like this,” she countered, explaining that she comes from a family where her parents are open-minded.

She also addressed a common assumption: “Living together doesn’t necessarily mean people are having sex. And even if they are, if they’re adults, it’s completely their choice.”

Social Media Reacts- From ancient traditions to modern freedom

The video, now widely shared online, has triggered thousands of comments and divided opinions. One netizen brought an unexpected historical twist to the conversation. “Live-in is basically Gandharva marriage according to Hindu ancient texts. It’s one of the eight different marriage forms depicted in Hindu culture. People saying live-in is against our culture are just sad because nobody picked them, nothing else, " one X user commented.

Another voice online expressed strong disapproval, insisting that live-ins undermine family values, said, “No decent parent would want their daughter or son to live in a live-in relationship. In today’s new youth, live-in is only a means of debauchery.”

A third netizen lamented the lack of social progress saying, “Why is this even a point of discussion? India is going backwards. As a society, we’re still not able to normalise live-in. Shame."

A reflection of generational and cultural divide

While the debate is not new in India, the blunt and emotional responses in the video have brought the cultural divide into sharp focus. For some, live-in relationships represent a dangerous erosion of tradition and values. For others, they are simply a personal choice between consenting adults.

The conversation also highlights the gender bias that persists in such debates, with women often facing harsher judgment and labels, while men in the same situation escape similar scrutiny.