What is a Dowry (Jahaz)?

on Sunday, November 18, 2012

Money, property and other things that the bride brings from her parents’ house is known as a Dowry. In the past, Hindu parents gave a dowry to their daughters because women didn’t always have rights. A dowry was also demanded by the groom or his family. Now, it has become a culture in India and Pakistan. These two countries are highly affected by the dowry. In early times, the use of a dowry was prevalent in wealthy families but many ordinary families also adopted this system in their culture. The reason for this adoption was greed.

In India, it is believed that a person who does not accept a dowry may have some personal faults. A Dowry is given by the parents simply to attract a good husband for their daughter. After the marriage, that dowry becomes the property of the husband and his family. Most people demand a dowry from the bride’s father. Sometimes they will also make a list of items that are needed. This is against all laws concerning this. This disease first originated in India. It has very few advantages, and one such advantage is to help a poor groom financially at the time of his marriage so that the woman may be protected.

Some people also believe that giving and receiving a dowry will also increase their status in society. A Dowry is commonly given in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sirilanka and Nepal. It means that it is mostly practiced in south Asian countries, excepting Bhutan. If brides’ parents don’t have enough money to give a dowry then this will badly affect the girl after the marriage. Mostly, husbands beat their wives if they do not bring a dowry from her parents’ home.

Most people confuse the concept of a dowry and a Mehr. A Mehr is the amount given by the groom to her bride. This practice is compulsory in Islam, and was created simply to protect the rights of women.  It is a large amount, usually fixed by the consultation of the bride, the groom and their family members.

A Dowry is not a part of Islam, but is practiced in many Muslim countries. Whereas it is permissible for the parents to give gifts to the bride in Islam, it is not an Islamic tradition or culture. Pakistan adopted the dowry from Indian culture. Before the partition of India and Pakistan, all people were known as Indians. At that time, many Muslims and Hindus lived together, and they adopted many things from each other such as the dowry, Basant, etc.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the value of dowries in Pakistan. Many people in Pakistan are illiterate, and many do not want to be educated. The literacy rate in Pakistan is about 60%. A lack of education facilitates the continuation of giving a dowry. Many Pakistanis become greedy when they think about what a dowry can provide them. A Dowry is a very bad thing and should be banned in all countries.

There should be proper rules and laws about a dowry. Proper steps should also be taken to reduce this harmful disease in society. Young generations should talk to their parents about this issue and do their best to reduce this disease.



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