AbstractLive-in-relation and marriage are two varied concepts resembles some-how with certain differences in them. Live-in-relation is most older concept exist than the marriage, but widely used in these days. Pre-civilisation reflect the concept of live-in-relationship where the concept of marriage was not in vogue. The concept of marriage is a product of civilisation. Civilisation gave birth too many newer concepts and ideas which shaped the destiny of the human existence among which is the institution of marriage. Marriage is one of the universal social institutions established to control and regulate the life of mankind. It is closely associated with the institution of family. In fact both the institutions are complementary to each other. It is an institution with different implications in different cultures. Its purposes, functions and forms may differ from society to society but it is present everywhere as an institution [1]. The live-in-relation is another concept which will resemble with the marriage but differs in many aspects. The resembling factors are there will be two persons male and female live together for uncertain period. However, the period is very much limited in live-in-relationship which may end in short or result in marriage. Marriage is to a greater extent is permanent in character while live-in-relation is temporary. Imperfect rights and duties are the features of liv-in-relationship while in marriage they appears to be perfectly situated. More mutual trust and understanding find in marriage while they will be less in live-in-relation. The marriage is permanent institution where the married couple establish another social institution the family. The live-in-relation is a temporary arrangement which may break up permanently or result in marriage. The modern society marking ahead equally towards both marriage and live-in-relation as the necessity of the day
Keywords: Live-in-Relation; Marriage; Institution; Family; Society; Ancient; Modern.