28% of divorced daters open to second chances, signal India’s changing mindset on remarriage: Survey

The survey shows that over 35 percent of divorced women from Tier 1 cities find matchmaking apps dedicated to second chances more useful and comfortable while giving love another shot (Representational image: Pexels)

For a long time, second marriages have had to bear the burden of misplaced judgment. But a new survey by Rebounce, a matchmaking and matrimony app for divorced, separated, and widowed singles, has revealed that the narrative is slowly changing; the new generation is breaking the long-standing taboo around remarriages.

Over 28 percent of the survey participants openly shared that they are interested in starting over after their divorce, not letting a marriage that ended define the rest of their lives.

The study was conducted between mid-November and mid-December among 5837 daters who were previously married. Participants ranged in age from 28 to 50 and were selected from both metropolitan areas and smaller cities. Speaking on the topic, Rebounce's Founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented, "Remarriages in India were seen as a compromise. But the shift that's happening now is eye-opening. Remarriages were never about replacement or 'just finding a companion for old age'. It is literally about finding the love these individuals deserved, a love that is healthier, more peaceful, and compatible.”

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Women are leading the shift

The survey shows that over 35 percent of divorced women from Tier 1 cities find matchmaking apps dedicated to second chances more useful and comfortable while giving love another shot. Akriti (35) from Bengaluru, said, "When I finally decided to move on after my divorce, apps were so much more reliable than relying on people to find me the right partner. I had complete control of what kind of partner I would attract. That's something that helped me find someone interested in me despite all I have been through." Survey data also indicates that while women face more challenges, they are still emotionally clearer in their expectations during their journey of remarriage than men.

Divorced and separated men between 30 and 40 disclosed that their biggest fear was not just societal judgment and rejection; it was falling back into the old pattern (Image: Pexels)

Men want emotional compatibility

Divorced and separated men between 30 and 40 disclosed that their biggest fear was not just societal judgment and rejection; it was falling back into the old pattern. 3 in 5 men ready for remarriage shared they now look for emotional compatibility, and prefer discussing goals and emotional alignment before committing. 21 percent shared they still struggle with vulnerability owing to the failed first marriage, but matchmaking platforms designed specially for divorcees have helped them open up their vulnerable side to someone who not only understands it but has been through the same.

Also read | Study shows 97% of Indian women prioritise commitment in comparison to 80% men

Metros and suburbs

The survey shows that the shift in mindset is more visible in Tier 1 cities, like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, where there's a growing acceptance and openness towards remarriages, while Tier 2 cities are still struggling under family and societal pressure, though much less than a decade back.

Vasu, a 38 year old doctor from Bengaluru, said, "I won't say there's no stigma at all here in the metros, but yes, we care less about what people think. For me, finding the happiness that I know I deserve is more important than looking like a saint in society's eyes. I guess that's a privilege of living in a Tier 1 city.”

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Second chances mean clearer intentions

For many daters in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, love the second time around feels noticeably different. They’re entering relationships with far more clarity than they did in their first marriage. This time, boundaries matter; 3 in 4 daters actively prioritise them. There's a visible shift in expectations: about 41 percent of respondents disclosed that they are no longer looking for someone who completes them; rather, they are seeking a partner who complements their goals, values, and personality. Priya (36) from Delhi commented, "I am not going to jump into something blindly anymore. I value my experience too much to make uninformed and rushed decisions. I believe that's what's unique about a second marriage. It's so much more grounded, mature, and overall starts on a stronger footing."