Dewatering dowry: Father returns Rs 51L, accepts Re 1 as shagun in anti-dowry stand

Bhind (The Uttam Hindu): A wedding has emerged from Bhind district that has given society a new perspective. Anoj Pathak, a resident of Khidkiya Mohalla, categorically refused to accept dowry at his son's wedding, sending the message that the strength of relationships is determined not by wealth but by values.

The wedding of Akarsh Pathak, son of Anoj Pathak, took place on February 5th at the city's Jagdish Marriage Garden. During the "Phaldan" ceremony, the bride's father, Vinod Upadhyay, who had come from Jabalpur, offered a traditional gift of 51 lakh rupees. However, the groom's father accepted only one rupee and a coconut, respectfully returning the remaining amount.

On this occasion, Anoj Pathak said that he married his son not for financial gain, but based on values, respect, and family values. He added that a daughter is not a burden, but rather the Lakshmi of the family, and that emotions and trust play a greater role in marriage than money.

The decision received widespread praise from those present. Many hailed it as a strong beginning for social change against the dowry system. This marriage was not just a union of two families, but also served as a social message.