Divorced, widowed, single: Paira gives all a seat at the table

Matchmaking platform Paira hosted an in-person meet for 60 marriage-minded singles, 30 men and 30 women, at Lakeshore on Friday. Organisers say the platform puts personality and values ahead of age, status or marital history.

Titled "Cha Theke Chirodin", the event brought participants together face to face over tea to share values and start conversations. Paira says it is neither a speed-dating event nor a conventional matrimonial site.

"Nobody has to rush into marriage," said Paira CEO Mosharat Ahmed Mehek. "We help people find the right match, grow in confidence, and shape a future together."

"My whole family lives abroad and has settled there. No one is here in this country to look for a groom for me. So this platform is helping me," said participant Sabrina Islam, a private bank employee.

The survey also showed caution about technology. Only 15.7 percent of respondents said they definitely trust AI matchmaking, while 81 percent recommended a balanced mix of AI and expert matchmakers.

"Virtual things are there where we can get introduced, but scams happen there and it becomes too risky for a life decision. These in-person meetings feel safe, and the environment created gives a sense of honour, not judgement," said participant Ali Hasan Prince, an entrepreneur.