Despite their financial stability or global lifestyle, families and brides are becoming cautious while considering marriage proposals from NRIs.
Hyderabad: There was a time when an “NRI groom” was shorthand for success, security, and a sparkling future abroad. Families would light up at the mention of “settled in the US” and would jump on matchmaking boats. But now, NRI grooms are no longer the most sought-after matches for many Telugu families.
Despite their financial stability or global lifestyle, families and brides are becoming cautious while considering marriage proposals from NRIs. The changes brought in by US President Donald Trump have much to do with this.
For years, NRIs, especially those from the US, were considered ideal life partners as the international lifestyle was sought after by Indian households. However, families are now moving away from the idea, citing several concerns.
One of the biggest issues is job insecurity. With layoffs becoming frequent in the tech and software industries abroad, families are hesitant to opt for a groom with unstable career prospects.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Lavanya Reddy, a mother who is currently looking for matches for her daughter, said: “They could be earning in dollars today, but if he loses his job tomorrow, it is almost game over for him. He either has to find a new job within a few months to avoid being kicked out of the country, or has to move back to India and search for jobs here.”
Visa issues, and changes in immigration rules in the United States is another growing worry. Many families are not considering life abroad as a safe option. K. Prakash Rao, a local matchmaker in the city, said: “Many brides wanted NRI proposals before. But one by one, they’re calling back and asking for local grooms. When asked why, they said they said the US is sending immigrants back. So they are not interested in NRI grooms anymore.”
Anusha Reddy, a prospective bride, said, “I was in touch with a guy from Nizamabad, who is currently in the US. He was waiting for his visa extension there. What if he gets stuck and can’t come back?”
She further said “I’m seeing a lot of my cousins and friends living in the US who are worried about what might happen to their visas. It's not easy to live in the US anymore.”
“There is a clear shift in people choosing locals over NRIs. They are noticing couples living in the United States going through problems, and are choosing not to go down that road,” Prakash Rao added.
