When Aayush Sharma decided to marry Arpita Khan at the age of 24, he had neither a steady income nor a clear career path.
Coming from a well-off political family, Aayush, who appeared on YouTube channel last year, remembered how his parents were taken aback by his decision, especially given Arpita’s background. His father questioned, “” (You don’t do any work, you’re not earning money, and on top of that, you’re getting married, and that too to a girl who has so much money. How will you manage her expenses?). To which Aayush candidly responded, “ (You will pay for this, right?)”
Aayush also opened up about the early skepticism his family expressed — not just about finances, but also cultural differences between film and political families. His mother wondered whether their worlds would blend well. Eventually, they were won over. Aayush recalled reassuring his father, “Wherever Aayush decides to go, Arpita will follow him. You don’t worry about it.” But for many couples, questions of financial preparedness and familial acceptance can be far more complicated.
Counselling psychologist Athul Raj tells , “Financial stability is often seen as a prerequisite for marriage, but the reality is more complex, especially for young adults. Stability doesn’t necessarily mean having a hefty bank account. It’s about the ability to contribute emotionally and practically to the relationship. When one partner is to cover their spouse’s expenses, it can lead to long-term issues. It’s not just about the money, but the autonomy it represents.”
In the beginning, he adds, it might feel harmless, but over time, it can breed resentment or a sense of imbalance. If one partner feels like they’re carrying more weight — whether emotionally or financially — it can strain the relationship. Being financially reliant on others can create feelings of inadequacy, not just about money, but about self-worth and shared responsibility.
“While financial struggles are normal, the key is communication. If both partners understand that stability doesn’t always come immediately and are willing to support each other through it, they can navigate these pressures,” Raj assures.
To bridge that gap, Raj notes that it’s important for both partners to be vulnerable and patient. It’s about understanding that family dynamics often aren’t as easily molded as we think. When one partner’s family has a different set of beliefs or expectations, it can create an . “But what helps is the ability to not just respect the differences, but also to actively demonstrate that those differences won’t affect the core of the relationship. For Aayush and Arpita, it wasn’t about proving anything with words — it was about showing their families that their bond was strong enough to withstand external pressures. Action often speaks louder than reassurance,” he explains.
