Wedding gifts versus dowry: What every Indian expat in the UAE should know

Wedding gifts versus dowry: What every Indian expat in the UAE should know

Dubai: Dowry is a despicable word. Dowry is an offence. And we all shun dowry, right? Right. But what about gifts? Now, that should be fine, right? Right again. Well, like it or not, it is this dichotomy that is at the root of a continuing custom in the Indian wedding context: The exchange of property, cash, jewellery and other valuables between wedding couples and their families - without actually calling it dowry. The dirty 'D' word, which has raised its ugly head again after the death of a , begs a relook because it can sometimes disguise itself as a gift and even escape legal ramifications. In many cases, it's not about a deal being negotiated or spelt out. It's about coping with the burden of expectations. Forget what the groom and his family may expect, the bride's own family traditions, besides societal customs also come into play. So much so that some families go out of their way, even run into debt if necessary, to try and meet these expectations. Commonly enough, that would include organising a lavish wedding and providing an elaborate bridal trousseau. There's no limit to what the bride can take with her: From cash,