The Prevalence of Dowry Among the Literate and Upper/Middle Class in India
Despite the social and legal advancements that have taken place in India, the problem of dowry continues to persist, especially among the literate and upper/middle-class populations. In this article, we will delve into the prevalence of dowry in India, the reasons behind it, and the ongoing efforts to bring about a change.
Introduction to the Dowry System in India
The dowry system in India has a long and complex history, and it has evolved significantly over time. While the Indian legal system has made significant strides in addressing these issues, the social and economic factors that perpetuate the practice remain strong.
Perceptions and Practices Among the Literate and Upper/Middle Class
Many individuals from the Agarwal Marwari caste and other literate and well-off families are actively working to abolish the dowry system. For instance, this writer hails from such a background, where both parents are against the concept of dowry and refrain from practicing it. They believe that exchanging love, affection, and respect between two families is the best gift one can offer.
The writer appeals to others to take a similar stance: "Come on guys, you can earn your living why do you need to depend upon dowry for your future."
The practice of dowry has not only spread among the upper/middle class but has also become more dangerous for women. While the demands for dowry remain the same, the laws protecting women from dowry harassment have weakened.
The dowry system is not only detrimental to women but also undermines the concept of marriage itself. Marriages in India are often driven by financial considerations, whether it is the pressure of funding the wedding or the greed for dowry. This has led to a significant increase in divorce rates in the country.
Current Trends and Practices
While the demand for dowry might not be as prevalent as it was a few decades ago, it still exists in middle-class families. In some cases, parents provide money towards a house deposit or outright purchase, while in others, 5-10 tholas (approximately 50-100 grams) of gold is a common practice. However, there have been instances where dowry demands have become less frequent and more reasonable.
For example, in the case of a niece who got married a few years ago, no dowry was requested. Similarly, in the upcoming marriage of a nephew in March, no demands were made. Instead, there will be an exchange of gifts, such as sarees, but nothing extravagant. Moreover, the writer's niece received a diamond ring, which was ultimately rejected in favor of a simple gold ring.
In conclusion, while the practice of dowry persists, there has been a noticeable shift towards more modern and less materialistic ways of celebrating marriage. It is crucial for families and individuals to continue to advocate for and promote these changes.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The eradication of the dowry system is an ongoing process that requires the efforts of everyone in society. We must continue to educate ourselves and others about the harmful effects of dowry and work towards a future where marriages are celebrated based on love, respect, and mutual understanding, rather than financial gain.