I don’t think that matrimonial websites have failed to work for the desi community. I understand that one does come across profiles with very little/no description often managed by parents. I also agree that many times people do upload their passport size ph0tographs…but then the website is designed for all kinds of users. I strongly feel that your experience would have been much different if you would have managed your profile on such websites. You would have still got a lot of real crappy messages/emails given that you are a desi settled abroad, but with patience you might have come across a real interesting profile.

A very good friend of mine married a desi guy who graduated from a prestigious American college through these websites. Both my friend as well and her husband had more or less similar expectations from the website as yours. They wanted the profiles to be managed by the prospective bride/groom; with casual photographs; and willingness to explore a fit before getting pressurized from families for any kind of a commitment. They came across each other’s profile after being registered with the websites for more than 9 months and spent another 2-3 months messaging and talking to each other before the matter was referred to the parents. And if I may add they have been happily married for over 3 years now.