Dowry dynamics

Dowry is an affair that seems to be seamlessly integrated into the Indian culture. Though it has been often claimed that this practice had declined - while some even go to the extent claiming that this practice is extinct. And there are those that argue, that in their system, the bridegroom gives away a dowry. The problem with the whole thing, is irrespective of the party giving the dowry, the victim is the woman. In fact, the second case is subtler than the first one.

I've observed that even the literate, high class section of the society isn't any exception to this rule. Most so-called gentlemen do demand dowry, and there are so-called ladies who so strongly believe that a man who doesn't demand a dowry isn't worth it. (Though they'd never dare to tell it publicly.) While it can be argued that its the choice of the woman to give a dowry or not - it is an indirect degradation of the bride in question. It amounts to pay someone to marry her.

Case 2 as I said earlier is more deceptive. Termed as Bride Price in several countries, its in practice in several countries (including USA) - its the amount of money or property given to the bride's family (obviously the father) by the bridegroom. The issue here is that, the bride is treated as a property. And we all know too well, how people have sold daughters for centuries - bride price is just a modern version!

Eliminating dowry from a society is of course no easy task. It needs a lot of change in attitude. Its of course, not a man vs. woman stuff. There are many men who think its bad - and several women who feel its okay. However, to conclude, if you are female, if you are feminist, you are FREE!

If you've liked this article, you might also like the Christian perspective. To read click here.