THE DOWRY SYSTEM
The dowry system is a tradition in which a bride's family is required to provide significant amounts of money, goods, or property to the groom and his family as a condition of marriage. This system is prevalent in many cultures and has been associated with a wide range of negative outcomes, including domestic violence, gender discrimination, and financial strain on families. The dowry system places a significant financial burden on the bride's family and can contribute to gender-based violence, as brides may be subjected to physical and emotional abuse if the dowry is not deemed sufficient by the groom's family. In addition, the dowry system can reinforce gender discrimination, as it suggests that the bride is a financial burden on the groom's family and that women's value is determined by their ability to provide material wealth. While many countries have enacted laws to prohibit the practice of dowry, it remains a persistent problem in many parts of the world, and efforts are needed to raise awareness and promote gender equality to eliminate this harmful tradition.