‘Ladkiyaan pata nahi kya…’: Malaika Arora reveals the one thing women don’t need to rush into; psychologist explains why

She also opened up about what she would tell her younger self if she could go back in time. “I would have said, ‘Take your time to get married.’ I would have told my younger self that, definitely,” she said, adding that marriage is “a huge commitment” and that “ladkiyaan pata nahi kya… itni jaldi shaadi karne ki zaroorat nahi hai (Women don’t need to get married so soon).” 

Her advice reflected a shift in perspective, one that many adults only gain much later. She explained further: “Thoda bohot kaam karlo, thoda understand karlo life ki journey (Work a little, and understand life’s journey) and then take that plunge — which I was… very young when I got married.”

But how does marrying young impact emotional development, identity formation, and later relationship satisfaction?

Dr Anitha B, clinical psychologist, Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “From a psychological perspective, marrying very young can sometimes interrupt the natural process of identity formation. Early adulthood is a phase where individuals explore personal values, career direction, emotional boundaries, and self-understanding. When marriage happens too early, the individual may begin to define themselves primarily through the relationship rather than as an independent person.”

Over time, she adds that this can affect emotional maturity, decision-making, and long-term relationship satisfaction. Couples who marry later often report greater stability because they have had time to understand their own needs, communication styles, and emotional triggers before committing.

Key indicators that someone is genuinely ready for a long-term commitment like marriage

Emotional readiness for marriage is reflected in self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the ability to handle conflict without fear or avoidance. “Practically, readiness shows up as financial stability, clarity about life goals, and the capacity to take responsibility for both personal and shared decisions. A person who is ready for marriage usually does not view it as an escape from loneliness, pressure, or social timelines. Instead, they see it as a conscious partnership based on respect, shared values, and emotional safety,” notes Dr Anitha. 

Differentiating between genuine readiness and simply wanting to fill an emotional void

Dr Anitha says, “After a separation or divorce, openness to love again is influenced by emotional healing, self-reflection, and the ability to process grief without bitterness. People who are genuinely ready for a new relationship tend to feel emotionally complete on their own and are not urgently seeking validation.”

In contrast, those who are trying to fill an emotional void often seek immediate relief, constant reassurance, or distractions from loneliness. “A useful marker of readiness is whether the individual feels curious and hopeful about connection rather than anxious or dependent on attention to feel stable,” concludes the psychologist.