'Open to marry’? Mumbai founder’s viral LinkedIn idea gets a hilarious reply from Shaadi.com

A Mumbai-based founder has sparked online chatter after suggesting a playful, yet pointed, twist to professional networking: a “#OpenToMarry” badge on LinkedIn, akin to its “Open to Work” tag.The idea came from Shubham Gune, CEO of agency Hinglish, who shared his frustrations with traditional dating apps and matrimonial sites. He wrote: “Mujhse Shaadi Karogi? Before you judge me, hear me out.” He went on to question why a platform that connects professionals couldn’t also facilitate meaningful relationships when it already links jobs, clients, mentors and investors. Gune’s post featured an edited profile picture declaring “Open To Marry” and invited others to join a movement under the hashtag.

His tongue-in-cheek suggestion drew thousands of reactions and turned the comments section into what users dubbed a “LinkedIn swayamvar.”

The conversation took an even funnier turn when dating site Shaadi.com joined the thread. Its official handle chimed in with: “We got LinkedIn swayamvar before GTA 6.” The banter highlighted how the line between professional and personal networking is blurring."If LinkedIn can get us jobs, clients, mentors, and investors…Why can’t it help us find love?," says Gune. "Let’s start something called hashtag#OpenToMarry, If you’re genuinely ready, just drop the name of your city in the comments.

If we cross 100 comments, the city with the most entries will get its own offline event filled with laughter, fun games, and maybe… Your first courtship moment," writes in the long post.

Social media reactions

"next we know people would have a badge of- Open to Relationships, Open to Situationships," writes one user. "SAAS : Shubham As A Spouse," another user gave a hilarious reply. "I’m so hopeless that even LinkedIn might ghost me here," writes a third user.While the “#OpenToMarry” idea was shared in jest, it spotlights a real trend: young, career-focused individuals are still seeking meaningful relationships and feel existing platforms aren’t quite hitting the mark. By leveraging a professional network, Gune is challenging the notion that matrimony must be confined to dating apps or dedicated matchmaking sites.Whether the suggestion is seen as clever, cheeky or bold, it has certainly got people talking — about identity, connection, and the platforms we rely on to make both happen.