Muzz's Matrimonial Event in Lahore: A New Era for Matchmaking in Pakistan

In Pakistan's conservative social landscape, a UK-based matrimonial app, Muzz, held its first in-person matchmaking event in Lahore. The app adheres to Islamic etiquette and aims to provide a platform for singles seeking spouses. The event saw attendance from about 100 people, challenging traditional matchmaking norms.

In a groundbreaking move, dozens of young singles gathered in Lahore this week to meet potential marriage partners, facilitated by a UK-based matrimonial app, Muzz. This marked the first in-person event of its kind in Pakistan, a conservative Islamic country where marriage arrangements typically fall into the hands of parents.

Traditionally, Pakistani marriages are arranged by parents within specific communities or extended families. In contrast, dating apps face societal stigmas and gender segregation remains prevalent in a country of 240 million people. Muzz, formerly known as Muzzmatch, adheres to Islamic etiquette and is designed for Muslim users. Features include optional photo blurring and the presence of chaperones to oversee meetings, aligning with traditional values.

Despite past online criticisms, the Lahore event attracted around 100 attendees. This shows a shifting acceptance as smaller events begin to challenge conventional matchmaking. Aimen, a 31-year-old attendee, was encouraged by her U.S.-based brother to use the app before attending the event. Moaz, another participant, shared that he'd been using Muzz for a year but found mutual family involvement challenging. Other events, like Annie's Matchmaking Party, also aim to innovate the matchmaking process using algorithms. Abdullah Ahmed, a 22-year-old participant at the Muzz event, expressed optimism after meeting a potential partner who shared his interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)