The answer seems simple. But as with most things about relationships, it’s not so clear-cut. We get a woman and man’s opinion.

“Sex is a very integral part of married life, but your entire marriage cannot be based on sex alone. I’ve been married for three-and-a-half years and have realised that trust, understanding, love, compatibility, honesty, respect and patience are also, if not more, important than sex. Sex is a physical requirement, but your soul needs much more. And your heart will be warmed only by love and understanding. A soul-to-soul connection is more important. But then that’s just me. I know one couple who have now been together for 17 years, have three children and can’t keep their hands off one another. What’s amazing is that they have almost no shared interests. Their upbringing and families are totally different. They don’t talk the same language or belong to the same class. But somehow, they work really well. So you never know how people click and make a marriage work. However, sex wouldn’t be high on my priority list.”

Sheetal Mistry Solanki, 38, digital media design

“While this may seem strange coming from a man, but for a happy marriage sex is definitely not the most important thing. I’ve been married for five years, so I know a thing or two about it. One of the important elements of a successful marriage is emotional compatibility. I’d rate that much higher than sexual compatibility. Sex lasts for a few minutes, but the joy you get in living every day with the person who understands you and knows your little pet peeves is unmatchable. Both partners need to be financial independent so that fights about money never blight your relationship. It’ll also make sure no partner feels inferior. You also have to be willing to work at it every day. Things you didn’t think you’d fight about is what you end up doing in a marriage. Constant reassurance goes a long way in making each of you feel secure. On a scale of 1 to 10, sex ranks 5 in terms of importance on my list.”

Amit Govind, 30, PR professional