Unless we have met God face to face, we are and will be biased and will consider ourselves right and others wrong. The opinions of the majority doesn't count in spirituality. What matters is the truth, even if there is only one following it. The measure of truth is and should be Gita, Lord Krishna or Mirabai.

In India it is an aboriginal deluded tradition that the fair skinned spouse has prominence over the darker skinned spouse. The knowledge, samskaras and know-how become secondary. The animal propensities and other considerations such as money, name and fame, etc. can bias even the parents.

Emotions during youth (ages 12-24) are common. Physical attraction and sex can overtake many other logical considerations. The superficial considerations always prove damaging in the long run and do not have any bearing on the successful outcome. Since parents and younger generations are both full of bias in their own manner, they should seek the advice and experience of the wise ones. Otherwise, go ahead and learn from experience, your best friend.

-- Swami Radhanandaji