Bhubaneswar, May 25: Actor Mihir Das, who hosts a popular reality show that deals with family disputes, advised youngsters to take lessons from the much-hyped reconciliation of Barsa Swony and Raja Shree Mohanty instead of being bowled over by the celebrity quotient of the incident.

"Marriage and divorce are common nowadays. Letting go of disparities and coming back together is rare. Young folks should learn from this and try to hold on to their relationships," said the 50-year-old actor.

Das said counselling should become an important part in the lives of couples, both before and after marriage.

"I have met a number of such couples and observed the problems that they have. Counselling is not a bad idea and couples should go through such sessions to sort out their issues," said the actor, who is known for films such as Bou, Sahara Jaluchi and Stree.

The actor said that "genuine middlemen" are sometimes required to being alienated couples together. "A number of their well-wishers were in touch with Barsha and Raja and worked to bring them back together," he said.

Sociologist Lokapriya Kanungo said the popularity of Das's show is a testimony to the state of the institution called marriage today.

"This habit of publicising relationships has become common. But, it seldom leads to a positive outcome. We are embracing modernity at a fast pace. But, at the same time, we should stick to traditional relationship values."

Former member of the State Commission for Women and social activist Namrata Chadha said marital discord was a common affair and the issue was simply being played out of proportion.

"Their case came into the limelight because of their political background. But separation and coming back together are both common nowadays," she said.

She said making a marriage work was completely dependent on the couple. "One should learn from this case that going to court is not the ultimate option. Couples should try to sort things out among themselves first," Chadha said.

Das feared that the number of broken marriages would increase in future.

"This occurrence of this phenomenon is going to increase. Women are becoming empowered. So, letting go has become easier than holding on. On the other hand, addiction among men has also become a cause for concern," he said.

"Fights are a part of life but it is important how we deal with them. Couples should focus on the positive qualities in each other," said Das.