Mumbai: Love is a universal desire that knows no boundaries. We all have our unique journeys, with some of us walking a tougher, lonelier path, while others revel in life's sunshine and colours. The reasons may vary, but they all lead to the same realisation – the value of having the right person by our side. Matchmaking is an art of soul-searching. It's about understanding who we are, for without self-awareness, finding the right person becomes a daunting task. What may bring two people together is often insufficient to keep them together in the long run.
Founded in 2012 by Anuradha Gupta, the venture was born from a personal quest to find the right life partner. Gupta held a singular vision. She wanted to shift the matchmaking paradigm from illusory guarantees to genuine connections. They orchestrate a delicate alignment between two individuals through meaningful interactions that resonate with one's core values and personalities.
In an era dominated by digital connections and fleeting bonds, Vows for Eternity stands as a beacon of tradition and wisdom. They offer a unique blend of time-honoured matchmaking insights within the vast expanse of today's interconnected world. In doing so, they build a delicate bridge that connects the age-old with the contemporary, the local with the global, and the community with the individual. This bridge weaves love stories that transcend continents while remaining anchored in the timeless principles of compatibility and understanding – the very principles that have guided countless souls to love throughout the ages.
Indiantelevison.com caught up with Gupta where she gave a lot of insights on the company's goal, relationship advice, maintaining them and many more….
Edited excerpts
On Vows For Eternity differentiating itself from other global matchmaking companies
Each player brings something unique to the table; I can tell you more about Vows for Eternity and leave it to you to decide what distinguishes us in the matrimonial industry. For the last decade, we have been headquartered in the US with a local presence in India, the UK, Canada, and are now focusing on Dubai. Over the years, what has been consistent is that we view marriage as a sacred bond between two people, yet celebrated between two families. It's a space that is intensely private, and that's the reason we have always extended our service as an offline, confidential, bespoke search. We focus on understanding our members because biodatas don't do justice to people, as this is not a job application! Each person is different and has had different experiences in life, processes things differently, and reacts differently. Hence, we feel the only way we can connect them to someone aligned is by human involvement; in many ways, we are trying to do it on a larger, global scale the way matchmaking has been done traditionally in Indian culture. We introduce a sense of familiarity on one hand, yet we open the world up within a private space for our members.
As a company, we have always considered marriage an equal partnership; it's about two people who complement each other and come together to create something special. Much has evolved over the years, be it greater financial independence among women, how both genders choose to get married later, or the blurring of stereotypical roles. What has remained consistent is that at some point, no matter how successful, well-educated or accomplished we are, when our journey is shared with the right person, the sun seems to shine that much brighter! And that is what being human is all about.
On the key factors that you consider when matching individuals
We don't work with checklists or algorithms because individuals have immense potential to offer in a partnership– nuances that are unavailable to see in a resume or a static profile. All matchmaking happens after we invest a thorough, enriching amount of time in getting to know our members, their families, and their diverse needs. We understand the members as individuals, their worldviews, their vulnerabilities, and their unique life journeys. We curate matches based on personality, mindset, and the value systems that are integral to each individual and family. Once we get a nod of approval from both members, we arrange the introductions for you to take forward in an organic manner.
On any support or guidance you provide your clients throughout the matchmaking process
At Vows For Eternity, we are about offering an offline and personalised service designed to meet individual needs. We focus on getting to know our members and connecting them with other like-minded people. Depending on the person, their individual backgrounds, and the amount of hand-holding they need, they then opt for the relevant membership tier. We have learnt that the lines between the fundamental and superficial often get blurred when deciding on a life partner. From being total strangers, the Vows For Eternity team becomes a confidante with whom our members share their deepest fears and happiest memories. We are a sounding board for very personal decisions, yet we know the decision must come from our members. When required, we help them with a different perspective and align expectations with reality.
On advocating for individuality and equality within and outside of marriages
With men and women increasingly asserting financial independence, career milestones and late marriages becoming the norm, we champion relationships based on mutual respect, love, friendship, and acceptance. Traditionally, alliances were forged based on familial compatibility, with women often expected to make the most significant adjustments. Our mission extends beyond the confines of plain-old matchmaking; we advocate for individuality and alignment of core values, mindsets, and personality fits.
Over the last decade, we have consistently challenged the status quo, whether it has been stereotypical gender roles, or addressing questions on why, as a society, personal choices need to be defended, why compromise shouldn't be the norm, why divorce and remarriage are still taboo in many instances, and a host of other issues which have no place in a partnership. In the years to come, we hope to tread on this journey with the continued love and support of our members, as we encourage people to marry for the right reasons and set their own timelines.
On your thoughts on long-distance relationships
Navigating a long-distance relationship is undoubtedly challenging, yet it is a profound test of love and commitment. During the journey and distance, not every moment is a picturesque scene; there are instances of self-doubt, questioning your partner, and even pondering the relationship's trajectory. Inevitably, insecurities surface, and the longing to have your partner by your side becomes palpable. However, if you harbour faith in your partner and trust in the strength of your relationship, the hurdles can be overcome. Communication, be it meaningful or mundane, is the nerve centre of every long-distance bond. Expressing your emotions, sharing concerns, and dedicating time to each other will help weather the time apart. In the tapestry of long-distance, the threads of willingness, trust, and constant touch interweave to create a resilient bond that can withstand the trials of physical separation.
On the ultimate goal for any relationship and company’s plans for the upcoming future
Being in a relationship should feel like coming home. It is not about finding someone you can live with but someone who you cannot live without. Someone who anchors you and yet gives you wings, as you take on each day. The challenge is to welcome and embrace a whole other person in your life– to learn to navigate life's challenges and bounties, together.
Over the last decade, our global presence has spanned over 65 countries, and we're always eager to broaden our horizons. We're making significant headway into newer markets in the Middle East, the UK and Canada. Additionally, we are expanding our offering to non-Indians who resonate with the progressive and comprehensive nature of the search. Fostering trust and thoughtfulness back into the matchmaking process remains at the heart of all our future endeavours.
Why are many people finding it difficult to maintain a healthy relationship with their partner
In the whirlwind of modern life, maintaining and sustaining a relationship can feel like walking through an obstacle course for many individuals. The relentless pursuit of career goals, coupled with the incessant demands of a digital age where constant contact is the norm, often leaves little room for genuine connection. Striking a balance between commitments and love becomes a tightrope act. It's crucial to carve out moments of undivided attention, fostering open communication and vulnerability amidst the chaos.
Amidst the hustle, the heartbeat of any thriving partnership lies in the mundane yet profound moments of shared laughter and understanding. Embrace vulnerability, as it fosters deeper trust. The decision to commit transcends age and rests on the branches of emotional maturity. Go after self-awareness, healthy communication, and a shared vision for the future. And remember, it's okay to seek support!
