When couples seperate after being together for years makes you wonder what took so long? Well, the term 'grey divorce' has to come to light after the recent rumour of veteran Bollywood actor Govinda and his wife Sunita heading for a divorce after 37 years of marriage. Although the couple has not confirmed these reports, an old video of Sunita discussing her separate living arrangement with her pets and children has been resurfacing online, fueling further speculation. Whenever a long-term marriage faces trouble, especially one spanning decades, it tends to catch people off guard. The natural reaction is to wonder: Why now, after so many years?

Let's understand grey divorce

The phenomenon of older couples separating, often referred to as "grey divorce," has been on the rise. Grey divorce occurs when couples over 50 decide to go their separate ways. While breakups among younger couples seem more understandable to society, the dissolution of a long-standing marriage often raises eyebrows. However, there are several compelling reasons why some older couples choose to part ways.

One of the primary factors behind this growing trend is that societal norms have evolved. Today, older individuals feel more empowered to make life choices without the fear of judgment or backlash. Many now prioritise their happiness over adhering to societal expectations of staying in a marriage that no longer brings them fulfillment.

Why do couples head for grey divorce?

A significant reason can be the empty nest syndrome. When children grow up and move out to pursue their careers and personal lives, couples sometimes find that they no longer share the same connection they once had. Without the common goal of raising a family, they may struggle to find common ground, making cohabitation difficult.

Financial independence, particularly among women, has also played a crucial role in this shift. Unlike previous generations, many women today have their own financial security, making them less dependent on their spouses. With financial stability comes the confidence to walk away from an unsatisfying relationship without fearing economic hardship.

Does the emotional connect get lost too?

Incompatibility in long-term goals is another factor that contributes to late-life divorces. Over time, couples may develop different visions for their future. One partner might want to travel the world, while the other prefers a quiet retirement. When their paths no longer align, parting ways may seem like the best option. "All my life, my day revolved around my 2 kids, my husband and work. But now that I have entered my late 50's, where my children don't really need me and are settled and work does require too much of attention, I realised I never shared a connection with my parter in my marraige and I now want to catch up on everything I missed while I was busy catering to my kids all these years. It is one life and I do not want to spend it without knowing what love truly feels like. Which is why, I seperated from my husband a year ago and I am on a Eat, Pray, Love journey of my own," said Subhadra, a school principal from Pune.

The loss of intimacy and emotional connection can make a marriage feel like an obligation rather than a partnership. As people evolve, so do their emotional needs. If a couple grows apart over time and fails to maintain a sense of closeness, the relationship may no longer feel meaningful, leading to the decision to separate.

While grey divorce is still met with surprise, it is a testament to the changing perspectives on marriage and personal fulfillment. As societal attitudes shift, more people are choosing to prioritise their well-being and happiness, even if that means starting anew in their later years.