J Morency

I understand all of the reviewers' criticisms of this show, but I did find a lot of parallels between this reality dating/pairing shows and others that were not Indian. Every season of the Bachelor has hometown dates that revolve around the Bachelor seeking out Daddy's permission to marry their daughter. Every time I watch, I recoil at this old and regressive notion that a daughter is property to be given away. And it's clear that not only are women socialized to accept that, if not proactively want that, and that is on full display on The Bachelor reinforcing this for years to come. The same sort of filial piety/ parental control featured on the show exists in U.S., it's maybe just less overt, and more passive aggressive. Watching this show, not solely as entertainment, but with the purpose of watching with a critical eye, can be worthwhile reason to watch all on its own. So, I didn't find Indian Matchmaking, and this particular display of cultural dating or marital norms, to be particularly stand out to the point I couldn't watch without feeling like I was betraying my beliefs. Truthfully, I admired the practicality and the directness of talking about big issues, religion, money, children early, which is something that is not done AT ALL on The Bachelor. As a side note, the calm and pace of this reality dating show really suited me. If you want your dating reality show, but without the drink-throwing, swearing, amplified dramatic music, and fighting, this is a good pick.