Although Western culture is considered advanced in many ways, tradition continues to trump modernization when it comes to arranged marriages in Canada and in India. The reasons why these marriages are imposed in certain families and their customs, such as dowry, will be discussed in this essay. These marriages were forced on children who wished to choose their own husband or wife. My argument will be structured by the following questions: How were arranged marriages born? What are the reasons why parents choose arranged marriages? What are the basic customs of arranged marriages? Why should arranged marriages not take place? What do weddings look like in Indian culture today in India and Canada? How are traditions presented in Bollywood films? From this analysis I will offer conclusions about why arranged marriages contain so many flaws, why these marriages are so common in Indian culture past and present, and their representation in a selection of films from Bollywood. Whether to gain capital or to save one's status, arranged marriages continued to serve as a staple of Indian culture. The people of India have been following the system of arranged marriages for countless years. They consider the system laudable, but it has advantages and disadvantages. Indians place great importance on family relationships and through the system the family is also protected. Indian parents take care of their children and their children obey their parents. Suitable spouses are found in suitable families for their children. The chances of marrying outside one's religion, caste or social class are slim to none. This protects the couple from problems that arise from different social or economic status...... middle of paper ......Arranged marriages. 2004. February 16, 2011. Images provided by: “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge”. Nothing to declare: go further with Bollywood. February 16, 2011. http://nothing2declare.blogspot.com/2007/05/dilwale-dulhania-le-jayenge.htmlLive India. “Baabul Review.” Current Live India Topics. "February 16, 2011. < http://www.liveindia.com/news/2n.html>The Tribune. "Monsoon Wedding (2001)." Spectrum: The Tribune. 2001. February 16. 2011. Word Press. « Fire 1996 Hindi Movie Watch Online. » Watch Movies Online Free February 16, 2011. < http://www.onlinewatchmovies.net/hindi/fire-1996-hindi-movie-watch-online.>