A traditional structure where three to four generations—including grandparents, parents, and their children's families—live under one roof. This system emphasizes interconnectedness, sharing resources from a "common purse," and utilizing a central kitchen.
Autonomy is sometimes viewed as a threat to family cohesion; instead, individuals are conditioned to fulfill their dharma (righteous duty) toward the family unit. Daily Life & Rituals What I Took Back Home with Me After 6 Weeks in India
In cities, many families have transitioned to smaller nuclear units. However, they typically maintain intense ties with extended relatives, often celebrating festivals or making major life decisions together.