Dowry and its prevalence as a ritual have been plaguing the indian community for decades, but a wedding in Tabr village in Sahrarnpur recently set a new precedent that is being applauded far and beyond the village confines. The groom at the wedding set an example that stood out. While performing the rituals of the wedding, he acknowledged that he was being given Dowry. Upon recognizing the Dowry ritual, he declared openly that he would just accept the ritualistic coconut and a one-rupee coin as a ritual. The groom established that relationships are built on love and respect, not money.
Utkash Pundir, the groom who has been able to set an example and stand apart, is a resident of Khudana Village and arrived for his wedding in the usual glitz and glamour associated with local weddings. The wedding went on normally until Utkash was handed over the dowry- at this point, he took a bold step.
As the bride’s side brought along the five lakh rupee dowry shagun as per tradition. Utkarsh said in front of everybody that marriage is a sacred bond, it’s not a barter exchange. I refrain from accepting any monetary aid from your side as a gift. He added that he will consider the marriage sanctimonious once he accepts a 1 rupee coin and a ritually blessed coconut. Impressed by the move, attendees gave Utkarsh a round of applause.
Groom’s move to bring a Positive Change in Society
After the move, the whole village started talking about Utkarsh Pundir-villagers reacted, saying this is the first time we have seen anyone step up and take such an effort that will help the bride’s family.
The bride’s family also appreciated the move. They said that Utkarsh’s ability to say no to dowry had raised the respect for the whole village and for his bride.
The special wedding has now become the talk of the town; residents of the village have been talking about it ever since. Utkarsh has further highlighted that the utter glamour and glitz, along with dowry rituals, have established themselves in society. If every groom decides that they will not accept dowry in any manner, these rituals can be changed with ease. He further stated that he is proud of the upbringing he has had to stand up and take such profound decisions.
