The concept of live-in relationships is currently a subject of considerable debate in India. Various perspectives emerge from social, legal, and familial viewpoints. Although legally permissible, a significant portion of society still struggles to readily accept it. Interestingly, in Jharkhand, a state with a large tribal population, a centuries-old tradition exists that can be considered similar to a live-in relationship in modern terms. This tradition is known as the Dhuku practice.
In tribal societies, if a young man and woman come to like each other, and their families, for whatever reason, are not ready for marriage, the young man brings the young woman to his home. They then start living together as husband and wife, without any formal marriage rituals. This is the Dhuku marriage.
There is no age restriction in this practice. As soon as a young man and woman wish to live together, they begin residing in the same house without social rituals. However, such couples only gain social recognition when, through the initiative of the village head or social leaders, they are married through traditional customs.