[DISCLAIMER: Paragraphs must be written in one para. But here we used multiple paras to help you read and memorize easily. Make sure you don’t write multiple paras in the exam!]
Write a paragraph on “The Dowry System” answering the following questions:
- What Is Dowry System?
- What are the purposes of the Dowry System?
- What are the causes and effects of the Dowry System?
- How can we stop this Dowry System?
Table of Contents
The Dowry System(Type 1)
(DIFFICULTY: Normal)
The dowry system is a centuries-old practice in which the family of a bride-to-be offers up a sum of money or other valuable assets to the family of her future husband. The purpose of the dowry is to help offset ( ক্ষতিপূরণ ) the costs associated with marrying, such as the groom’s wedding expenses, and/or the dowry may be seen as insurance for the bride in case her new husband fails to meet his marital obligations ( বাধ্যবাধকতা ).
The effects of the dowry system are far-reaching and often damaging. For one, it can put a great financial burden on families, particularly those who have more than one daughter to marry off. In addition, it can lead to discrimination against women and even violence if a family feels they have not received an adequate ( পর্যাপ্ত ) dowry.
Moreover, the system reinforces ( শক্তিশালী করে ) gender inequality by valuing women primarily for their marriageability and economic value rather than their intrinsic ( অন্তর্নিহিত ) worth. There have been some efforts to address the problems associated with the dowry system, but change has been slow.
In some countries, like India, legislation ( আইন ) has been enacted ( প্রণীত ) that makes giving or receiving a dowry illegal. However, such laws are often difficult to enforce and do little to change social norms ( নিয়ম ) around weddings and marriage.
Education is another potential solution; if young people are made aware of the negative effects of the dowry system, they may be less likely to participate in it. Ultimately, though, real change will require a shift in societal attitudes towards women and their.