Hyderabad: In a quiet but powerful shift, Telangana is witnessing a transformation in its social fabric—one led by its women. Over the past few years, the average age of women at marriage in the state has steadily risen, signalling a significant move towards autonomy, education, and informed life choices.
From an average age of 21 in 2017, women in Telangana are now marrying at 23 on average, as of 2020. In urban areas, the figure rises further to 24.3 years—well above the national average of 22.7 years—marking a distinct decline in early marriages.

As women delay marriage, they are rewriting their stories—embracing education, and shaping a future that is theirs to define. This progression reflects more than just a statistical shift. It points to evolving societal norms, growing awareness, and increased participation of women in decision-making—both within their families and in public life.
According to the latest report from the ministry of statistics, Telangana has outpaced many neighbouring states. While Tamil Nadu’s average age stands at 23.5 years, Kerala at 23.4, Karnataka at 22.8, and Andhra Pradesh trails behind at 22.5 years, Telangana’s upward trajectory places it among the more progressive states on this front. Nationally, only Punjab fares better, with an average marriage age of 24.4 years for women.
In rural Telangana, the average age of marriage is 22.8 years, while urban women marry at 24.3 years. The trend also aligns with the intent of the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021, which proposes raising the legal minimum marriage age for women to 21, in line with men.
Women’s rights advocates applaud the change. “When women marry at a healthy age of around 23, they are more likely to make informed choices,” said women’s activist Padma Kumari. “They develop a better understanding of their roles within the family, society, and their own rights,” she said.
The shift in marriage age also appears closely tied to broader measures of empowerment. In Telangana, 88.5% of households involve women in key decisions, and 55% of women own land—either individually or jointly.
Life expectancy among women in the state has also improved, now touching 70 years, underscoring the broader gains in health and well-being.