What is dowry meaning?

Dowry is a payment or transfer of property made by the bride's family to the groom or his family at the time of marriage. It is a cultural practice that is prevalent in many societies across the world. The dowry typically consists of cash, jewelry, property, or other valuable gifts that are given to the groom or his family in exchange for the groom's promise to marry the bride.

The practice of dowry has been controversial and is often associated with negative consequences, such as the objectification and commodification of women, domestic violence, and even dowry deaths. In many countries, including India, dowry has been outlawed, but it still persists due to cultural traditions and societal expectations.

The concept of dowry also has variations in different cultures, for example, in some cultures, it is the groom's family who provides a dowry to the bride's family. In others, the dowry is seen as a gift or financial support to the newly married couple, rather than a payment to the groom's family.

Overall, while dowry is a tradition that has existed for centuries, its perpetuation can result in harmful consequences and perpetuate gender inequalities.