A Transformative Wedding Tradition in Jaipur: Groom Returns Dowry

In a groundbreaking wedding ceremony in Jaipur, the groom and his father made headlines by returning a dowry of 11 lakh rupees, challenging traditional practices. This act of integrity has sparked widespread admiration and reflects a significant shift in societal attitudes towards dowry in Rajasthan. As younger generations increasingly reject the notion of dowry, this event symbolizes hope for a future where weddings are celebrated without financial burdens. The emotional response from the bride's father further emphasizes the importance of this change. Discover how this inspiring story is reshaping wedding customs in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 10, 2026, 07:19 IST

A Shift in Wedding Customs

The issue of dowry has faced a significant challenge once again, particularly in Jaipur, Rajasthan. In a recent wedding, the groom's family refused to accept the customary dowry, marking a notable change in tradition. The trend of lavish gifts and cash offerings during weddings has been prevalent in Rajasthan, but there is now a noticeable decline in this practice, with grooms' families increasingly rejecting dowry.

In one such instance in Jaipur, the father of the bride presented a cash gift of 11 lakh rupees to the groom as a token of goodwill. However, both the groom, Shailendra Singh, and his father, Vijay Singh Rathore, graciously returned the amount. Their decision has been widely praised, and the emotional response from the bride's father, who embraced his son-in-law, highlighted the significance of this gesture.

Recognition for the Groom's Family

Vijay Singh Rathore, originally from Kishanpura in Churu district, now resides in Jaipur and is involved in the property business. His wife, Suman Shekhawat, works as a teacher. Their son, Shailendra Singh, is employed as an accountant at Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited. Shailendra recently married Kanchan Shekhawat, the daughter of Surendra Singh Shekhawat from Jodhpur, on February 5. Kanchan holds an MSc and a B.Ed degree and has also cleared the NET exam.

Returning the Dowry

During the wedding, the bride's father, Surendra Singh Shekhawat, offered 11 lakh rupees as a gift to the groom. However, both Shailendra and his father respectfully declined to accept the dowry. By returning the gift, they sent a powerful message to society, which was met with admiration from the attendees. The bride's father was so moved by their gesture that he embraced his son-in-law.

A Positive Change in Society

Traditionally, the issue of dowry has been a significant concern in Rajput weddings in Rajasthan. However, there has been a growing movement against this practice recently. Even in districts like Barmer and Jaisalmer, which are often considered traditional, families are beginning to reject dowry. This shift is not limited to the Rajput community but is spreading across various social groups, signaling a positive change.

The younger generation is increasingly viewing the exchange of dowry during weddings with disdain, aspiring to achieve success on their own. Recently, a Rajput girl in Barmer refused to accept dowry, instead donating the money to a hostel for girls in her community. Another inspiring example emerged from Jhunjhunu, where a resident named Ramkishan completed his son's wedding with just a symbolic offering of one rupee and a coconut. Upon the bride's arrival at their home, Ramkishan and his wife, Krishna Devi, gifted her a car worth 11 lakh rupees, making their wedding a topic of discussion.