Death of model forces difficult conversation about divorce in India

The death of model Twisha Sharma has sparked a conversation about women's decisions to remain in unhappy marriages in India. Sharma, who died just months after her wedding, had reportedly expressed deep unhappiness in the relationship. Her parents support her decision, echoing the sentiment that divorce is preferable to a dead daughter.

However, social analyst Kavita Chabra, who divorced her husband after only two years of marriage, says divorce is still a difficult and stigmatized choice in India. Chabra, the first person in her family to do so, says her decision was made with the hope of resolving issues, but when they persisted, she sought support from her family.

Despite the changing attitudes towards marriage, the process of obtaining a divorce in India can be lengthy and emotionally distressing, with over 11 million civil cases currently pending in courts. Some women, like Melbourne-based Reena Rana, have created online support groups to help women facing marital troubles, but cultural stigma still makes divorce a challenging path for many.