As a scout and negotiator, a family sends the nayan into the community to seek possible matches. The matchmaker considers "family background, economic position, general character, family reputation, the value of the dowry, the effect of alliance on the property, and other family matters" (Prakasa 15). Once a match is found, the matchmaker notifies his or her clients and arranges communication through him or her. Communication is facilitated through the nayan until some type of agreement is met. Depending on the region, an actual meeting between the families takes place, to finalize the marriage agreement, while also allowing the couple to see each other (22). Once a marriage agreement is met, the nayan may be asked to assist in the marriage preparations: jewelry and clothing buying, ceremonial set-up, and notification of the marriage to the community (Ahmad 68). The nayan usually receives no pay for his or her services, but may receive gifts or money from both families for the services they provide (69). Newspapers, the Internet, television ads, and social conventions are used with the modern nayan (Prakasa 22). .
The term arranged marriage is thought of being an image of two people meeting for the first time, on the day of their wedding night, and they have no choice but to marry the person selected by their parents. Most arranged marriages allow for meetings between the future partners, and they are given the chance to view if the selected person is compatible for them. When parents are selecting a mate for their child, they pay great attention to religion, education background, family background and especially social class. If the future mate does not meet the families requirements then he or she is rejected. The modern system of arranged marriage is somewhat similar to blind dating in the United States. The attraction between the couple is immediate. Part of it has to do with the fact that this union will take place with the full consensus of their families, a very important consideration for Indian men and women raised traditionally.
