Jaipur Wedding Breaks Tradition: Groom Returns Dowry of 11 Lakhs
A Bold Stand Against Dowry
In a remarkable turn of events, the issue of dowry has faced a significant setback in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Traditionally, the practice of giving and receiving substantial amounts as dowry during weddings has been prevalent, but a recent incident indicates a shift in this trend. Grooms are now increasingly refusing to accept dowry.
A notable case unfolded during a wedding ceremony in Jaipur, where the bride's father presented a cash gift of 11 lakhs as a token of goodwill. However, the groom, Shailendra Singh, along with his father, Vijay Singh Rathore, decided to return the amount, earning widespread admiration for their decision. The bride's father was so moved by this gesture that he embraced his son-in-law.
Praise for the Groom's Family
Vijay Singh Rathore, originally from Kishanpura in Churu district, currently 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, gifted 11 lakhs to the groom as a token. However, both Shailendra and his father respectfully declined to accept the dowry.
By returning the dowry, Vijay Singh Rathore and his son sent a powerful message to society. Their actions were met with heartfelt appreciation from the attendees, and the bride's father was so touched that he embraced his son-in-law.
A Changing Society
Typically, the issue of dowry is significant within the Rajput community in Rajasthan. However, there has been a growing movement against this practice recently. Even in traditionally conservative districts like Barmer and Jaisalmer, there is a noticeable trend of rejecting dowry.
This change is not limited to the Rajput community; it is spreading across various social groups. The younger generation is beginning to view the exchange of dowry during weddings with disdain. 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 conducted his son's wedding with just a symbolic gift 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 lakhs, making their wedding a topic of discussion.