Jan 7, 2021 · In this essay about the dowry system, you will find what dowry exactly is, how it got started, and why it needs to be stopped. History of Dowry System in India. The dowry system started even before Britishers in India. In those days, society doesn’t used to consider this as “Fee” or “Money” that needs to be paid to be the bride’s ... ... Aug 27, 2024 · The Dowry system is one of the longest-standing injustices in Indian society that is connected to marriage. The practice is still common in the 21st century, in both subtle and obvious ways, despite a lot of talk and action against it. Here are a few sample essays on ‘dowry system’. 100 Words Essay On Dowry System ... Oct 18, 2023 · Dowry System Essay Example #2. The dowry system remains a persistent social issue in many societies, deeply entrenched in cultural norms and traditions. This essay explores the dowry system, its historical context, underlying causes, its impact on individuals and society, and potential strategies to address and overcome this harmful practice. ... Sep 7, 2023 · Given below are two essays in English for students and children about the topic of ‘Dowry System’ in both long and short form. The first essay is a long essay on Dowry System of 400-500 words. This long essay about Dowry System is suitable for students of class 7, 8, 9 and 10, and also for competitive exam aspirants. The second essay is a ... ... Nov 5, 2023 · Dowry System Essay: Dowry System Essay is an important topic for students to learn because of its moral and societal implications. Dowry system refers to the practice of the bride or her family giving durable goods, cash, moveable or real property to the bridegroom. The dowry system stems from the ancient and skewed inheritance laws of India. ... ">
  • Essay On Dowry System

Dowry System Essay

500+ words essay on dowry system.

Marriage is a beautiful relationship between two people where they are bonded by love and begin their new life together. In India, there is a custom of giving some gifts either in cash or gold or both before and after the wedding to the bride and the groom out of affection. It is considered as love and blessings for the newly wedded couple that help them in starting their new life. However, during the last three or four decades the Dowry System has become associated with the status of a family. Now, it has become compulsory to give money and gold to the groom’s family. This has given birth to the dowry system. In this essay on the Dowry System, we will highlight the points related to dowry in marriage and how it has affected our society. Moreover, at the end, we have discussed some steps to be taken to stop the dowry system.

Dowry System

Dowry has been conveniently defined as money, goods or estates, which a woman brings to her husband’s home after marriage. The system of dowry in marriages has been haunting our society for a long time. This is a social curse, which has gone unchecked, though time and again it has tormented people in general. Lust for money and acquiring high social status for one’s family has given birth to the social evil called Dowry. It has become the root cause of suicides and murders of brides. Bride burning for want of dowry has become a way of life. Different communities have different marriage customs, but the custom of giving dowry is shared by all the communities.

The dowry system is a great evil that still exists in society. It is an act of discrimination against unmarried girls, whose values are defined based on the prices of their respective dowries. It is an example of greed and selfishness and is a great curse, especially for the parents who belong to the lower middle class. This is the reason why people get depressed and feel cursed at the birth of a daughter. Moreover, the dowry system paves the way for other crimes against women like female foeticide, female infanticides, dowry death, cruelty by husband and his relatives.

How Can the Dowry System be Stopped?

A dowry system is a social stigma that needs to end. Every girl should go to her in-law’s house with pride. In India, every 5 out of 10 families face the dowry system. There are many laws made by the government but the custom of dowry persists in our society. So, there is an urgent need that we all start taking action against it. The first step is to start from our homes. At home, we should treat both boys and girls equally by providing them equal opportunities. We should educate both of them and give them freedom to be fully independent. The upbringing of the girls should not be limited to household work and marriage. In fact, they should be nourished in such a way that they feel free to make their choice, put their demands, ask questions, think openly and have the guts to fulfil their dreams.

There is a need to create awareness campaigns in different sections of society to make people aware of it. The campaign includes voluntary organization, civil marriage, launching of the youth movements etc. Eradicating the dowry practice will give equal rights to women and boost their confidence level. It will help in the growth of the family, society and nation. The sooner the dowry becomes a thing of the past, the better for our society.

Frequently asked Questions on Dowry System Essay

How can we write an effective essay on the dowry-system.

Students need to first understand what and how the Dowry system functions. This will automatically help students to write a descriptive essay.

Why is the Dowry-system an important topic for essay writing?

Students must be informed about such illegal practises happening around them. This will help them become responsible citizens of India.

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Essay on Dowry System in English (150, 200, 250, 500 Words)

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Here, we’ve presented essays on “Dowry System” in 150, 200, 250 & 500 word samples. All the essays will be helpful for students of all classes i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & class 12.

Table of Contents

Essay on Dowry System in 150 Words

Introduction.

The dowry system is a social practice where the bride’s family gives money, gifts, or property to the groom and his family as a condition of marriage. It has been prevalent in many societies for centuries and continues to persist in various forms despite legal bans in many countries.

Impact on Women

The dowry system often leads to the exploitation and financial burden on women’s families. Women may face harassment, abuse, and even death if their families fail to meet dowry demands. This perpetuates gender inequality and undermines women’s rights.

Economic Strain on Families

The pressure to provide dowry can push families into debt and financial hardship. Parents may prioritize saving for dowry over investing in their daughters’ education or other essential needs, further perpetuating cycles of poverty.

Legal Measures and Social Change

Efforts to combat the dowry system include legal reforms and awareness campaigns. However, cultural attitudes and economic factors continue to sustain this harmful practice. Long-term change requires addressing root causes and promoting gender equality.

The dowry system remains a significant challenge, impacting women’s rights and perpetuating gender inequality. Effective solutions require both legal measures and broader societal changes to challenge entrenched cultural norms and promote equal treatment for women in marriage.

Essay on Dowry System

Dowry System Essay in 200 Words

The dowry system, a long-standing social custom, entails the transfer of money, goods, or property from the bride’s family to the groom’s family upon marriage. Despite legal restrictions in many countries, it persists, posing challenges to gender equality and women’s rights.

Socio-cultural Factors

Rooted in cultural beliefs and societal expectations, the dowry system often reinforces patriarchal norms. It perpetuates the view of women as commodities and reinforces unequal power dynamics within families and communities.

Financial Exploitation

The practice places immense financial pressure on the bride’s family, who are often compelled to fulfill exorbitant dowry demands. This can lead to economic strain, debt, and financial insecurity, exacerbating socio-economic disparities.

Gender-based Violence

Dowry-related disputes frequently escalate to violence against women, including harassment, dowry deaths, and domestic abuse. Such incidents underscore the systemic oppression and vulnerability faced by women within marital relationships.

Legal and Social Interventions

Efforts to combat the dowry system include legal reforms to enforce dowry prohibition laws and initiatives to raise awareness and promote gender equality. However, effective eradication necessitates concerted action addressing deep-rooted socio-cultural norms and economic inequalities.

The dowry system persists as a complex socio-cultural phenomenon, perpetuating gender discrimination and socio-economic disparities. Its eradication requires comprehensive strategies encompassing legal, social, and economic dimensions, aimed at challenging entrenched gender norms and ensuring the fundamental rights and dignity of all individuals.

Essay Writing on Dowry System in 250 Words

Originating centuries ago, the dowry system remains prevalent across various cultures, notably in South Asia, including India. According to a UNICEF report, 40% of the world’s child brides reside in India, often linked to dowry practices.

Historical Context

The dowry tradition historically emerged as a form of financial security for women in patriarchal societies. However, it has transformed into a means of economic exploitation, leading to adverse consequences for women and their families.

Socio-economic Implications

The burden of dowry often imposes severe financial strain on families, contributing to increased indebtedness and poverty. Studies reveal that dowry-related violence accounts for a significant portion of crimes against women in India, with the National Crime Records Bureau reporting over 7,000 dowry-related deaths annually.

Legal Framework and Enforcement

Despite legislative measures such as the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961, enforcement remains a challenge due to deep-rooted cultural norms and societal acceptance. The lack of stringent implementation mechanisms perpetuates the persistence of this harmful practice.

Shifting Attitudes and Advocacy

Efforts to eradicate the dowry system involve grassroots advocacy, community mobilization, and educational initiatives aimed at changing societal attitudes and empowering women. Organizations like the National Commission for Women in India play a crucial role in raising awareness and providing support to victims.

The dowry system persists as a complex social issue deeply ingrained in Indian society, perpetuating gender inequality and violence against women. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including legal reforms, social campaigns, and economic empowerment programs, to dismantle entrenched norms and ensure the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Writing an Essay on Dowry System in 500 Words

The dowry system, entrenched in various cultures globally, particularly prevalent in countries like India, remains a contentious social issue. Stemming from historical practices, it has evolved into a complex phenomenon with far-reaching socio-economic implications. According to a report by the National Crime Records Bureau of India, dowry-related deaths account for a significant proportion of crimes against women, with over 7,000 reported cases annually.

Historical Origins

Historically, dowry served as a form of financial security for women in patriarchal societies, ensuring their future well-being. However, over time, it has morphed into a tool for exploitation, perpetuating gender inequality and violence against women. The tradition persists despite legislative efforts, such as the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961 in India, aimed at curbing its practice.

Socio-economic Impact

The burden of dowry imposes a considerable financial strain on families, often leading to indebtedness and poverty. Data from the National Family Health Survey indicates that dowry demands are prevalent across various socio-economic strata in India, highlighting its pervasive nature. Furthermore, the pressure to fulfill dowry expectations can hinder women’s access to education and employment opportunities, reinforcing gender disparities.

Dowry-related disputes frequently escalate to violence against women, including harassment, dowry deaths, and domestic abuse. Despite legal provisions, such incidents continue unabated, reflecting deep-rooted societal attitudes and norms that prioritize male entitlement and control over women’s lives.

Legal Framework and Enforcement Challenges

While legislative measures exist to prohibit the practice of dowry, enforcement remains a significant challenge. Weak implementation mechanisms, coupled with social acceptance of dowry, hinder effective eradication efforts. The lack of accountability often allows perpetrators to escape justice, perpetuating a cycle of violence and impunity.

Cultural Norms and Societal Pressures

Cultural beliefs and societal expectations reinforce the perpetuation of the dowry system, making it difficult to eradicate. In many communities, the exchange of dowry is deeply ingrained in marriage customs, symbolizing social status and familial honor. Breaking away from these traditions requires challenging deeply entrenched norms and fostering societal change.

Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns

Efforts to combat the dowry system involve grassroots advocacy, community mobilization, and educational initiatives. Organizations like the National Commission for Women in India play a crucial role in raising awareness about dowry-related issues and providing support to victims. However, sustained efforts are necessary to address the root causes and promote gender equality.

Economic Empowerment and Alternative Solutions

Promoting economic empowerment initiatives for women and providing avenues for skill development and employment can help alleviate the financial burden associated with dowry. Additionally, fostering alternative marriage customs that prioritize mutual respect and equality can gradually shift societal attitudes away from the dowry system.

The dowry system remains a pervasive social issue in India, perpetuating gender inequality and violence against women. Despite legislative interventions and advocacy efforts, its eradication requires comprehensive strategies addressing socio-economic disparities, cultural norms, and enforcement challenges. By fostering a culture of gender equality and empowerment, society can work towards creating a more equitable and just future for all individuals.

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Essay on Dowry System for Students and Children

500+ words essay on dowry system.

Dowry system is followed in India since a very long time. Our ancestors started this system for valid reasons but now it is leading to issues and problems in society. In this essay on dowry, we will see what dowry exactly is, how it started, and why it should be stopped now.

essay on dowry system

History Of Dowry

Dowry system started even before the British period. In those days, society does not use to consider dowry as a “Money” or “Fee” you have to pay to be brides parents.

The idea behind the dowry system was, to make sure the bride will be financially stable after getting married. The intentions were very clear. Brides parents used to give money, land, assets to the bride as a “Gift” to make sure their daughter will be happy and independent after marriage.

But when British rule came into the picture, they restricted women to own any property. Women were not allowed to buy any property, land or assets. Hence, men started owning all the “Gifts” given to the bride by her parents.

This rule changed pure dowry system into a mess! Now parents of the bride were looking at their bride as a source of income. Parents started hating their daughters and wanted only sons. They started demanding money as a dowry. Women were suppressed since they did not have equal rights as men. And since then, grooms parents follow this rule to their advantage.

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Why the Dowry System Should be Stopped?

The new dowry system is creating problems in society. Poor parents do not get any groom who will marry their daughter without taking dowry. They have to take “Marriage Loans” to get their daughter married.

Dowry is becoming a nightmare for Women. The cases of infanticide are increasing. Poor parents do not have any other option. They cannot afford to have a girl child, and hence they are intentionally killing infant girl. More than 8000 women are killed because of Dowry!

It is very clear that Dowry is creating violence. Groom’s parents are misusing this pure tradition. And they are not aware that they are misusing it, because they are not educated about the traditional dowry system. Everyone is just following the new dowry system blindly.

Dowry is complete injustice with women and does not give women equal status in society. Because of dowry men will always be superior to women. This is creating a mess and negative environment in society.

Under the Dowry Prohibition Act, taking or giving dowry is a crime and illegal . If you see someone taking or giving dowry then you can lodge a complaint against them.

Dowry system is good unless and until it is considered as a gift given to the bride by her parents. If the groom’s parents are demanding money to get married as a “ Dowry ” then that is completely wrong and illegal.

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Dowry System Essay: A Social Evil in India

  • Dowry System Essay

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Download Important Essay on Dowry System for Students in English Free PDF from Vedantu

The Dowry system in India has been running for a long time. It is the money that is given during marriage to the boy or their family, even property can also be included in dowry. The system of dowry started in ancient times during marriage the money will be given to the groom so that he can take proper care of his bride, it was used to honor both sides of the family. As time changes dowry still remains in society but its significance keeps changing with time. 

Nowadays, the dowry system is becoming like a business for some castes. The Dowry system is becoming a burden for the bride’s family. Many times if demand is not fulfilled for the boy's side then the marriage is abruptly canceled as a result of this failure.  If we see it in our Asian country, then dowry is becoming more important for the groom's side, mainly in countries like India.  To end this heinous social practice, the government has made a law to refrain people from taking dowry under the Act of 1961. 

Whatever money or property given by the bride side they should accept but it never followed. In many places, we come to know that because of not doing so on the groom's side the girls are harmed in such a way that sometimes even it leads to death. Some people even think dowry is like crime, it's illegal and they never ask anything from the bride's family. 

In India, everyone speaks and progresses for women's rights and says ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ but a girl even after achieving everything in her life; where starts taking care of her family but even then she can't escape the shackles of dowry. Sometimes because of dowry which is mostly prevalent among the below poverty line people, they kill their daughters after they are born or before their birth in the mother’s womb itself so that they can escape dowry. Since they know after growing up and educating her, they still need to give dowry in order to get her married. However, one fails to understand that it is not a daughter’s fault for which she is being wrongfully punished but the fault of the society that allows such practices even after so many years of independence. 

The History of Dowry 

The dowry system predates the British period and colonization in India. In those days, dowry was not considered "money" or a "fee" that the Bride's parents had to pay.  One of the fundamental purposes of dowry was it acted as a form of protection for the wife against the ill-treatment by her husband and his family. Dowry also served as a helping hand for the bride and the groom to build a life together after marriage. 

When British authority came into effect, however, women were barred from owning any property. Women were not permitted to purchase any real estate, land, or assets. As a result, males began to possess all of the "Gifts" provided to the Bride by her parents. 

During the British Raj, the dowry system was made mandatory leading to immense pressure on the bride’s family financially. Dowry violence has become a prominent aspect that can be observed till date. The husband or his family use violence as a method to extract money from the bride’s family as a “gift.” This system leads to women being dependent on their husbands or in-laws after their marriage.

What are the Effects of the Dowry System?

Gender Stereotyping: Women are frequently viewed as liabilities due to the dowry system. They are frequently subjected to subordination and second-class treatment in terms of education and other amenities. 

Affecting a Women's Career: The lack of women in labour, and thus their lack of financial independence, is the greater context for the practice of dowry. The poorer sectors of society send their daughters out to work to help them save money for their dowry.  While most middle and upper-class families send their girls to school, they do not prioritize job opportunities. 

Objectifying Women: Today's dowry is more equivalent to a financial investment by the Bride's family to get access to powerful connections and lucrative business possibilities. As a result, women are reduced to commodities. 

Crime Against Women: Domestic violence includes the violence and murders related to dowry demands. Physical, mental, economic violence, and harassment as a way of enforcing compliance or punishing the victim are all utilized in dowry-related offenses, similar to domestic violence.

How to tackle the Social Evil of Dowry?

The dowry system is a social taboo that must be abolished. Every girl should be proud to visit her in-laws. In India, the dowry system affects 5 out of 10 families. Although the government has enacted numerous regulations, the practice of dowry continues to exist in our society. As a result, we all must begin taking action to combat it. Starting from our own homes is the first step. At home, both boys and girls should be treated similarly and given equal opportunity. Both of them should be educated and given the freedom to be completely self-sufficient. Education and freedom are the two most powerful and valuable gifts that parents can give to their daughters. Only education will allow her to be financially secure and a valuable family member, earning her respect and suitable family standing. As a result, the best dowry a father can bestow on his daughter is an excellent education, guidance, and motivation to pursue her aspirations. 

Another thing that needs to be done is make suitable legal amends.  No one can implement a law without the people's full cooperation. Enacting a law, without a doubt, establishes a pattern of behavior, engages social conscience, and aids social reformers in their efforts to repeal it. The system must give more moral value-based education to the common people to extend their brains and perspectives. 

Society should strive for gender equality. States should evaluate gender-disaggregated data across the life cycle — birth, early childhood, primary education, nutrition, livelihood, access to healthcare, and so on — to counteract gender disparities. Widening childcare and ensuring safe public transit is vital in decreasing workplace bias and establishing supportive work cultures. Men and women should have equal domestic chores and responsibilities. 

What do People think of the Dowry System?

Dowry is like a suicidal bag for many people who are not very strong financially. It should be completely stopped from all the country wherever it is followed. The government needs to take action in this so that no more crime takes place. In the modern era of India where people are reaching everywhere and achieving many things but still in many populations our thinking against dowry is the same. 

The Dowry system varies from state to state and also on the job profile of the groom. If we see in the north part of the country the groom having a government job, doctor or engineer then dowry is huge in terms of money, and whereas in the south part of the country, the bride is forced to give dowry in terms of land, jewellery, and money. It can be simply stated that if you can arrange a huge dowry you can get any groom for your daughter which is ethically and morally wrong. In ancient times. dowry was taken only from upper-caste families but now it is becoming a universal practice where everyone is forced to give dowry. In India, marriage is a big affair where both sides of the family call all the relatives and have to arrange everything from the beginning till the end of the marriage ceremony. It doesn't matter whether the bride is educated or not, they are still expected and forced in a way to give dowry for marriage. Though some may say that dowry is an involuntary act, in reality, it is voluntarily forced upon the bride’s family by the groom’s parents.

Dowry is giving rise to a lot of crimes in India. In some families, dowry is used as a threat or as a means to extract money from the bride's family irrespective of their financial condition. The north and east part of India show a high rate of dowry-related cases, many families subject the bride to domestic violence if their demands are not fulfilled. They will continue to abuse or threaten the bride at the hands of the husband or his family which unfortunately results in suicide. Nowadays, one can say that the groom's parents take dowry as a means of business from the bride's family. The dowry system is a problem for all families irrespective of their financial condition. Families might get any suitable groom to marry their daughter without giving dowry, it clearly shows that the dowry system is prevalent in the society and people are taking undue advantage of it under the garb of traditions.

The dowry that is taken by the groom’s side should be stopped everywhere, then only the country will be developed and the daughters can be independent. Dowry is also called ‘Dahej’ in Arabic, if it is given by the bride's side without any enforcement then only it is called a gift, else it becomes a crime. If the dowry system is completely wiped out then any bride's father will not have any burden and there will be no killing of girls after or before birth.

Dowry should be in the interest of the bride's family, not on demand by the groom's family. Dowry was made for the security of the bride to their new family where she marries and goes but over time people have changed its meaning to meet their needs. Let us all make endeavors to end this heinous social practice and safeguard our daughters and their bright futures. The important takeaway here is that parents should have the choice to happily give whatever they may desire to their daughters and nothing should be forced upon them in the name of traditions. 

FAQs on Dowry System Essay: A Social Evil in India

1. What are the different ways one can control and put an end to the dowry system in India?  

To control and eventually put an end to the dowry system here are a few steps: 

Educate your daughters. 

Motivate your daughter to be independent and responsible enough to carry out her own work. 

Encourage gender equality. 

Do not encourage either taking or giving of dowry 

2. What led to the dowry system in India?

During British time the practice of the dowry system was introduced and eventually it was made mandatory. In India, the dowry system means giving of cash, precious jewellery, and fulfilling other demands made by the party. Over the years, even after so many years of Independence in India, people changed the meaning of dowry to fit their agenda and to meet their needs under the garb of social traditions.

3. Why should one refer to Vedantu?

All the reading materials at Vedantu are curated by subject-matter experts who have years of experience in the respective field. The content is well-researched and compiled into an easily readable format for the benefit of students. Students can refer to these resources with ease and learn things at their own pace. Most importantly all the content on Vedantu is provided for free and it can be easily downloaded into PDF from both the website and mobile application of Vedantu.

4. How can I download reading material from Vedantu?

Accessing material from Vedantu is extremely easy and student-friendly. Students have to simply visit the website of  Vedantu and create an account. Once you have created the account you can simply explore the subjects and chapters that you are looking for. Click on the download button available on the website on Vedantu to download the reading material in PDF format. You can also access all the resources by downloading the Vedantu app from the play store.

5. What are the Ways of Controlling the Dowry System?

To control the dowry system here are various steps:

Educate your daughters.

Motivate your daughter to be independent and responsible enough to carry out their own work .

Encourage gender equality.

Do not encourage of taking or giving of dowry

6. When the Dowry System Started?

During British time the practice of the dowry system has become mandatory, in India dowry system represents as to inform of giving cash like lots of jewellery and other demands offered by the party.

7. What are the Elements of Dowry Deaths?

Here are a few elements mentioned below:

Acid Attack.

Domestic violence.

Women humiliation.

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Essay On Dowry System

dowry system essay english meaning

The dowry system, an age-old tradition, involves the giving of cash, jewelry, furniture, property, and other tangible items by the bride's family to the groom and his parents during the marriage ceremony. This practice, known as the dowry system, has deep roots in Indian culture and has been present for centuries. Unfortunately, it is not confined to India alone but is found in various societies worldwide.

The dowry system is often seen as a social evil, causing harm and distress to families. Instead of promoting the joyous union of two individuals, it has become a burden, leading to various social issues. Families may feel compelled to fulfill dowry demands, putting financial strain on them and sometimes leading to exploitation and harassment of the bride.

This system is like an old tree with roots that have entwined themselves in society's fabric. Despite efforts to eradicate it, the dowry system persists. Many girls and their families face the harsh reality of dowry-related issues, including domestic violence and even dowry-related deaths.

To combat this issue, society must work together to change its mindset. Education plays a crucial role in challenging traditional norms and promoting gender equality. Laws against dowry harassment need to be strictly enforced, and public awareness campaigns can contribute to changing societal attitudes.

In conclusion, the dowry system is a harmful tradition that has plagued societies for centuries. Its elimination requires a collective effort involving education, legal action, and societal change. By fostering a society that values equality and respect, we can hope to dismantle this age-old practice and create a better future for generations to come.

Why is the Essay on Dowry System Important for Your Exams? 

The essay on the Dowry System is important for exams because it deals with a significant social issue that has been affecting communities for a long time. Exams are not just about memorizing facts; they also assess our understanding of real-world problems and our ability to express thoughts clearly.

Firstly, the Dowry System is a pressing concern in many societies, particularly in countries like India, and addressing it requires awareness and understanding. When we write an essay on this topic, it shows that we are aware of the social issues around us. This awareness is crucial for being an informed and responsible citizen.

Secondly, writing about the Dowry System demonstrates our ability to analyze a societal problem critically. Exams often test our analytical skills, and discussing the causes, consequences, and possible solutions to the dowry system requires logical thinking and a clear expression of ideas.

Additionally, the essay on the Dowry System reflects our understanding of gender issues and the importance of equality in society. It prompts us to think about the impact of traditional practices on individuals and communities. This understanding is valuable not just for exams but for our overall growth as individuals who are aware of the world around them.

Moreover, the essay on the Dowry System is relevant for exams because it encourages us to explore the historical and cultural aspects of societal practices. It prompts us to delve into the roots of such traditions, their evolution over time, and the challenges faced by societies in eradicating them.

In conclusion, the essay on the Dowry System is important for exams as it assesses our awareness, analytical skills, understanding of societal issues, and ability to express ideas coherently. It prepares us to think critically about real-world problems, fostering a mindset that is essential for personal and societal development.

Long and Short Essay on Dowry System in English

The essay explains what the dowry system is, its impact on society and victims, why it is considered a crime and should be banned, and the laws implemented by the government to eliminate it.

These essays are written in an easy-to-understand language, making them suitable for use in school or college essay writing, speeches, or debate competitions. They provide information on a crucial issue affecting many societies, helping readers grasp the key aspects of the dowry system. The aim is to make the content easily remembered and presented when needed. Whether you are a student or someone looking to understand the dowry system, these essays serve as a valuable resource in comprehending its complexities and societal implications.

Essay on Dowry System 1 (100 words) 

Dowry is an ancient tradition in India where the father transfers property to his daughter upon her marriage. Initially, it began as a loving gesture to assist the newlyweds in settling down. However, over time, the dowry system has evolved into a problematic transfer of wealth from the bride's family to the groom's, leading to emotional and mental harassment for the bride's family. What once symbolized care for the daughter as she started a new life has turned into a burdensome custom, causing distress. The original intent of support and affection has been overshadowed by the negative impact of this practice, highlighting the need for societal awareness and change.

Essay on Dowry System 2 (150 words)

The Dowry system, rooted in Indian traditions, initially aimed to support newlyweds by the bride's father gifting land, money, and property. It intended to ensure a smooth start for the couple in their new life. However, over time, this well-intentioned practice has transformed into a societal evil, burdening the bride's family with the pressure to provide a certain sum of money and durables. Instead of being a support system, it has become a compulsion and a social issue.

The bride once meant to start anew with assistance, now finds herself in a delicate position. She is viewed as an asset by the groom's family, while her own family bears the financial burden. This raises critical questions about whether the dowry system is a means of suppressing women. Tragically, the dark side of dowry often leads to unreported cases of domestic violence, casting a shadow over various parts of the nation. Addressing this issue is crucial for dismantling gender inequalities and fostering a society where marriages are built on mutual respect rather than financial transactions.

Essay on Dowry System 3 (200 words) 

Dowry, once a simple transfer of wealth to symbolize love and support for newlyweds, has evolved into a complex issue causing suffering for young girls across the nation. This practice, deeply embedded in our society for a long time, has proven resistant to legal interventions aimed at eradication.

Despite being recognized as a punishable crime, the dowry system persists, inflicting hardship on many resilient girls and their families. The simple act of transferring wealth has transformed into a deep-rooted societal problem, with increasing cases of unreported crimes and domestic violence against young brides.

While legal measures prioritize reports against dowry-related injustices, many incidents go unnoticed. The rising rates of domestic violence indicate a pressing need for better education and awareness. Tragically, some young girls face extreme consequences, even death, due to dowry demands.

Addressing the dowry system requires not only stringent legal measures but also a concerted effort to educate and raise awareness within society. By challenging traditional norms and fostering a culture of equality and respect, we can hope to alleviate the suffering caused by this outdated and harmful practice.

Essay on Dowry System 4 (250 words) 

Dowry, a tradition where the bride's family transfers wealth to the groom's family during marriage, exists in various forms like cash, movable or immovable properties. Although its origin is hard to trace, the dowry system has persisted in India for a long time, casting a dark cloud over the brides' families.

Especially prevalent in the northern part of India, along with casteism, the dowry system turns what should be a joyous occasion into a source of anxiety for fathers of young girls. They often find themselves saving money, fearing the financial burden associated with their daughter's marriage. Sadly, for many women, the experience of dowry feels like a nightmare, making them feel like a burden rather than a celebration.

Efforts to combat the dowry system are ongoing, with various NGOs working to spread awareness and address this deeply rooted issue. What was once a beautiful gesture of providing support to newlyweds has taken an ugly turn, causing distress to families and perpetuating gender inequalities.

Recognizing the severity of the problem, the government enacted the Dowry Prohibition Act, of 1961, making dowry a punishable crime. Both the giver and the taker of dowry can face legal consequences, aiming to create a deterrent against this harmful practice. It is crucial to continue these efforts, combining legal measures with widespread awareness campaigns, to create a society where marriages are based on mutual respect and not financial transactions.

Essay on Dowry System 5 (300 words)

Introduction

The dowry system, involving the bride's family offering gifts to the groom's family, is widely criticized in society. However, some argue that it has advantages, benefiting brides in specific ways. This essay explores these arguments and examines whether the alleged benefits outweigh the harmful consequences.

Are There Any Advantages of the Dowry System?

Advocates claim that the dowry system provides financial support to couples starting their new life, including cash, furniture, and even a car. Supporters argue that as young couples embark on their careers, they may lack the financial means for significant expenses. However, this reasoning raises questions. If financial support is the goal, shouldn't both families contribute to getting the couple settled, rather than burdening only the bride's family? The sustainability of providing such support without plunging into debt or compromising living standards must also be considered.

Another argument is that less conventionally attractive girls may find grooms by meeting their financial demands. Unfortunately, this perspective sees girls as burdens and prioritizes marrying them off in their twenties. Offering significant dowry in these cases might seem like a solution, but it perpetuates a harmful mindset that needs reconsideration.

Supporters also claim that a substantial dowry enhances the bride's status in the family. However, statistical evidence contradicts this, revealing that, in most cases, it works against the girls.

Despite the various arguments in favor of the dowry system, its overall impact appears more harmful than beneficial. Advocates may present reasons that seem reasonable, but the systemic issues and negative consequences for girls and their families cannot be overlooked. It is essential to challenge and change these deep-rooted beliefs to foster a society where marriages are based on mutual respect rather than financial transactions.

Essay on Dowry System 5 (400 words)

The Dowry System, initially intended to assist girls financially as they entered a new phase of life, has transformed into an evil social practice. Like child marriage, child labor, the caste system, and gender inequality, the dowry system poses a significant challenge that must be eliminated for society to thrive. Despite government efforts and awareness campaigns, this heinous system persists in society.

Why is the Dowry System Still Intact?

The lingering presence of the dowry system raises the question of why, despite being declared a punishable offense and the subject of extensive awareness campaigns, people continue to practice it. Several factors contribute to the persistence of this system:

In the Name of Tradition:

The exchange of gifts from the bride's family to the groom's family, encompassing jewelry, cash, clothes, property, and other assets, has been ingrained in various regions for decades. Labeled as tradition, people follow it blindly, even though it becomes a burden for the bride's family in many cases.

Status Symbol:

For some, the dowry system serves as a status symbol. The size of the car and the amount of cash given to the groom's family contribute to elevating the status of both families. Consequently, even when families cannot afford it, they engage in extravagant wedding functions and present numerous gifts, turning it into a competitive practice.

Lack of Strict Laws:

While the government has criminalized dowry, lax enforcement of the law allows for the continued exchange of gifts and dowry during marriages. These legal loopholes contribute significantly to the persistence of this harmful practice.

Gender Inequality and Illiteracy:

Gender inequality and illiteracy further fuel the dowry system. Discriminatory attitudes and lack of education contribute to the perpetuation of this social evil.

Despite a comprehensive understanding of the adverse effects of the dowry system, its continued practice is disheartening. People in India must unite and take collective action to eradicate this problem. Strengthening the implementation of existing laws, challenging traditional norms, and fostering awareness and education are essential steps toward creating a society where marriages are based on mutual respect rather than financial transactions. The fight against the dowry system requires a concerted effort to dismantle deeply ingrained beliefs and foster positive change.

Essay on Dowry System 6 (500 words) 

The Dowry system, prevalent in societies worldwide for centuries, initially aimed to support daughters as they transitioned to a new life. However, over time, it has transformed into a heinous practice that undermines rather than empowers women.

Dowry is a Curse to the Society

Dowry, the tradition of gifting cash, property, and assets from the bride's family to the groom's, is a curse to society, particularly affecting women. This practice has given rise to numerous crimes against women, creating various challenges for brides and their families:

Financial Burden on the Family:

Parents of a girl start saving for her wedding from the moment she is born. They bear the responsibility of funding the entire affair, including decorations, catering, and banquet rentals. On top of these expenses, they must give significant gifts to the groom, his family, and relatives. Many families borrow money or take loans to meet these demands, leading to a severe financial burden.

Lowers Standard of Living:

Excessive spending on a daughter's marriage often forces parents to lower their standard of living. Many families end up in debt, spending years repaying loans, affecting their overall quality of life.

Gives Rise to Corruption:

Accumulating funds for dowry and wedding functions sometimes leads to corrupt practices. Families may resort to taking bribes, forging tax documents, or engaging in unfair business activities to meet these financial demands.

Emotional Stress for the Girl:

In-laws often compare the gifts brought by their daughter-in-law to those of others, subjecting her to sarcastic remarks and emotional stress. Such comparisons can lead to depression and mental health issues for the girls involved.

Physical Abuse:

Some in-laws engage in constant humiliation and verbal abuse, while others escalate to physical violence. Instances of women being physically harmed or even burned due to their inability to meet exorbitant dowry demands are distressingly common.

Female Foeticide:

The perception of a girl child as a financial burden has contributed to the alarming practice of female foeticide. Couples, under the pressure of dowry expectations, resort to aborting female fetuses. Abandonment of girl children is also prevalent in India.

Despite strong condemnation and the enactment of laws making dowry a punishable offense, this harmful practice persists in many parts of the country. The Dowry system continues to cause agony for girls and their families, emphasizing the urgent need for widespread awareness, stringent law enforcement, and a collective societal effort to eradicate this deeply rooted issue. Only through concerted action can society break free from the shackles of this detrimental tradition and pave the way for a future where marriages are based on mutual respect and equality rather than financial transactions.

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Essay on Dowry System for Students and Children in 1000+ Words

January 7, 2021 by ReadingJunction Leave a Comment

Essay on Dowry System for Students and Children in 1000+ Words

In this article, read an essay on dowry system for students and children in 1000+ words. It includes history, causes, effects, and solution to stop this social evil.

Table of Contents

Essay on Dowry System for Students and Children (1000+ Words)

If you want to know about the dowry system, then let’s start with our country, India , where it has been followed for a long time. Our ancestors started the dowry system for valid reasons; however, these days, this is leading to issues in the social environment.

In this essay about the dowry system, you will find what dowry exactly is, how it got started, and why it needs to be stopped.  

History of Dowry System in India

The dowry system started even before Britishers in India. In those days, society doesn’t used to consider this as “Fee” or “Money” that needs to be paid to be the bride’s parents. 

The concept behind this was to ensure that the bride will financially be stable after getting married. The intentions then were made clear, and so the bride’s parents used to provide assets, land, or money to the bride as a “Gift” to ensure that their daughter will be independent and happy after marriage. 

However, when Britishers came, they restricted women from owning any property and could not buy assets, land, or any property. Therefore, men owned all the gifts given to the bride by her parents. 

This rule changed the pure dowry system into a mess. These days bride’s parents are seeking their bride as a source of income. Parents hated their daughters and want only sons, and they demanded money as a dowry.

Women are being suppressed as they don’t have equal rights as men. And so, the groom’s parents follow this rule to their benefit. 

Causes of Dowry System in India

1. greed factor .

Dowry demanding often is exemplary of the collective greed of the society. Extortion in the name of compensation, social standing for the cost of groom’s education, his financial stability is the major factor of Indian marriages.

Demands are placed shamelessly and are expected to be met with silence. Threats of withdrawing the proposal loom on the bride’s family head at the cost of losing face in the portion and community of the agreed-upon sum prior to the actual function.

2. Society Structure 

Dowry system is entirely the manifestation of the patriarchal nature where men are taken to be in higher level to women in aspects of mental and physical capabilities.

With the backdrop of such a social enforcement structure, women are said to be second-tier citizens, fit to assume only domesticated roles.

This perception associates them being treated as a burden in economic terms, first by the father and then by the husband. This feeling compounded by the dowry system energizes the belief that a girl child is a cause of draining the family’s finances. 

3. Religious Dictates 

Religious constraints imposed by society on marriage customs are a factor towards dowry issues. These constraints don’t condone inter-religious marriage or between different religious sects, and so limit the number of suitable matches.

Boys of marriageable age with the desired qualifications become a prize that encourages this evil practice to be caught by the highest bidder. 

4. Social Constraints 

Apart from a similar religious background, some constraints are imposed based on social status and the caste system. Practices such as clan exogamy and caste endogamy have to remember while arranging a match.

Preferred matches must belong to the same or higher social standing, different clan, or same caste. These limitations will deplete the pool of marriageable men leading to consequences, demanding dowry. 

5. Social Status of Women

The inferior social-standing of women in Indian society is so deeply rooted in the country’s mind, that this treatment as commodities is accepted with no question, not only by the family rather also by women themselves.

When marriages are viewed as the ultimate achievement for women, evil practices such as dowry takes its root deeper in the social environment.

Effects of Dowry System

1. injustice towards girls.

Dowry bears a significant financial obligation for the family of the bride. As a result, girls have viewed a source of drain on the family finance leading to onus.

This view develops into a gigantic proportion, taking the feticides of girl child and shape of infanticides. Girls are often marginalized in the regions of education, where boys are given more preference. 

3. Violence Against Women

Also, read – Speech on women empowerment

Contrary to hopeful parents, dowry is not a onetime pay up. Demands are made by the bride’s family, who consider the girl’s family a never-ending source of finance. Inability by the girl’s family leads to domestic violence, verbal abuse, or even death.

The in-laws are burning brides are hardly a novelty in India. Continuous mental and physical torture instigates women to commit suicide or go into depression.  

4. Economic Burden

Getting a girl married is related to a hefty amount of money by Indian parents because of subtle or direct demand for dowry by the groom’s family. Families often borrow heavily, mortgages leading to a major decline in economic health. 

5. Gender Inequality

The idea of paying a dowry to get a girl married generates an increased sense of inequality among the genders, placing men superior to women. Girls may not attend schools while their brothers are given access to education.

They are being said as incompetent for roles other than housework and are also discouraged from taking up jobs. Their opinions are ignored, not valued, and suppressed. Behavioral and physical restrictions are imposed on girls that are completely natural for boys.

Why Should the Dowry System be Stopped?

The new dowry system is making problems in a social environment. Poor parents don’t get any groom who will marry their daughter without taking money. They have to take “marriage loans” to get their daughter married. 

Further, dowry is getting a nightmare for women. The cases of infanticide are increasing as parents don’t have any other option. They can’t afford to have a girl child, and so they intentionally kill their infant girl child. 

Dowry system is creating violence, and the groom’s parents misuse this pure tradition. They are unaware that they’re misusing it because they are uneducated regarding the traditional dowry system. Everyone just follows the new dowry system blindly.

Dowry is a complete injustice to women and doesn’t render her equal status in society. Because of this, men always are superior to women creating a negative and mess around the community. 

Under the Dowry Prohibition Act, giving or taking dowry is illegal and is a crime. If you see someone giving or taking a dowry, then you can complain about them.

Also, read – Social problems in India

Solutions to Stop Dowry System

1. strict law.

Different laws are enacted to prohibit dowry and the injustice against girls stemming. The Dowry Prohibition Act was pressed on 20 th May 1961, to eradicate this evil practice from a social environment.

This act declares not only the practice of accepting dowry unlawfully rather also penalizing giving of the same. It includes property, valuable security such as jewelry and cash exchanging hand during the marriage. 

2. Enforcement

It is never enough to introduce act and amend sections to fight against dowry. Instead, this needs ruthless and strict enforcement of those laws. This aspect still leaves a lot to be desired.

Even if those allegations are taken seriously by the authorities, lack of proper investigation process often leads to the accused going free. The Govt. must ensure a zero-tolerance policy for such offenders and ensure enforcement of the laws through systematic changes.

3. Social Awareness

Creating a social awareness against dowry is the first step towards eradicating this evil practice. Campaigns must reach the deepest strata of society and aim to spread knowledge about legal provisions against dowry system. There is also a necessity to educate the girl children about this social evil.

4. Overhaul of Mindsets

India, as a country, needs a significant overhaul of its existing mindsets to push back against the evil custom of dowry system. They must realize the fact that in today’s social environment , women can do anything that men can.

Women themselves must come out of the belief that they are inferior to men and must depend on men to provide for them.

The dowry system is sound when one takes it as a gift given to the bride by her parents. If the groom’s parents demand money to get married as a “dowry”, then that is entirely illegal and wrong. Hope you liked this informative essay on dowry system.

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Dowry System Essay for Students in English

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The Dowry system is one of the longest-standing injustices in Indian society that is connected to marriage. The practice is still common in the 21st century, in both subtle and obvious ways, despite a lot of talk and action against it. Here are a few sample essays on ‘dowry system’.

100 Words Essay On Dowry System

The dowry system in India is a long-standing practice and is deeply rooted in Indian culture. It is a pre-arranged agreement between two families and is usually decided at the time of marriage. The bride’s family provides the groom’s family with various gifts and money. These gifts usually include jewellery, clothes, and cash. Although this system is widely accepted, it has many negative impacts. The most serious consequence is that it leads to gender discrimination. In some cases, the dowry demands from the groom’s family can be so high that it becomes impossible for the bride’s family to meet them. This can lead to the bride’s family facing social discrimination and economic hardship.

Dowry System Essay for Students in English

200 Words Essay On Dowry System

The Dowry System is a centuries-old practice in India, and it’s still going strong today. A dowry is a gift of money and/or property that a bride’s family gives to her groom’s family on their wedding day. It is usually a payment made in exchange for the groom's family taking care of the bride and providing for her. This system is still very much in practice in India today, and it is often seen as a sign of social status.

The dowry system has its fair share of negative impacts. For starters, the practice encourages a deeply rooted gender inequality. Girls are often seen as a financial burden and families are expected to pay a hefty sum to get their daughter married. This has led to cases of financial exploitation, even in well-off families. Moreover, the pressure to give a large dowry often leads to families falling into debt. This is particularly problematic in rural areas, where many are already struggling to make ends meet. As a result, many girls are deprived of basic necessities such as education and healthcare.

However, there have been several initiatives to fight against the existing dowry system in India. The Government of India has made it illegal to demand a dowry, and non-profit organisations are working hard to make sure that women’s rights are protected.

500 Words Essay On Dowry System

Dowry system is an age-old practice in India which refers to the transfer of property and money from the bride's family to the groom's family. This system is most popular in India and a few other countries. Growing up, most of us have seen or heard of this system. The bride's family suffers because of the dowry system. Many times, the marriage is abruptly called off if the groom’s side's demands for dowry are not met. Furthermore, this system also puts a lot of pressure on the bride’s family, especially on the bride’s father. He is expected to provide the groom’s family with all the gifts and money. This can be a huge financial burden and can lead to the family’s financial instability.

The Indian government act of 1961 forbids individuals from accepting dowry as part of the government's effort to put an end to this abhorrent social practice.

Negative Impact Of Dowry System

Injustice | For the bride's family, the dowry carries a significant financial burden. A girl child is therefore seen as a potential burden and potential financial drain on the family. This viewpoint takes form of female infanticides and foeticides. Girls are frequently marginalised in areas of schooling where boys of the family are given preference. They are subjected to a number of limitations and forced to remain indoors in the name of maintaining family honour. Age is still seen as a measure of purity, which leads to the continued practice of child marriages. The practice is supported by the fact that the amount of dowry rises with the girl's age.

Violence Against Women | Contrary to popular belief, dowry is not always a one-time payment. The husband's family, who sees the girl's family as an endless supply of money, is always making demands. The girl's family's inability to meet further demands often results in verbal abuse, interpersonal violence, and even fatalities. Women endure constant physical and psychological abuse and therefore more at risk of experiencing depression and even attempt suicide.

Financial Burden | Due to the dowry demands made by the groom's family, Indian parents often associate getting a girl married with a substantial sum of money. Families frequently take on large amounts of debt and mortgage homes, which significantly harms their economic health.

Gender Inequality | The notion of paying dowry in order to marry a girl increases the sense of disparity between the sexes, elevating males above women. Young girls are barred from attending school while their brothers are allowed to attend. They are frequently discouraged from taking on occupations since they are seen as unfit for jobs other than household duties. Most of the time, their opinions are silenced, ignored, or treated with disrespect.

To combat the unjust practise of dowry, India as a nation needs to drastically alter its current mindsets. They must understand that in today's world, women are perfectly capable of performing any task that males are capable of. Women themselves must abandon the notion that they are subordinate to men and must rely on them to take care of them.

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Short Essay: Dowry System

The dowry system, a social evil prevalent in various parts of the world, especially in India, involves the transfer of parental property, gifts, or money at the marriage of a daughter. This practice can lead to severe societal issues, including financial stress on the bride’s family and, in extreme cases, violence against women. Writing a short essay on the dowry system requires an understanding of its implications, historical roots, and the measures needed to combat it effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a concise, informative essay on this complex topic.

Table of Contents

Title and Introduction

Title : Choose a title that reflects the critical stance against the dowry system, such as “The Dowry System: A Challenge to Social Justice in Modern Society.”

Introduction : Begin with a striking statistic or a real-life example to grab the reader’s attention. Briefly define the dowry system and mention its prevalence in specific societies. End the introduction with a thesis statement that sets the stage for your argument, such as the dowry system’s detrimental effects on women and families and the need for stringent measures to eradicate it.

Body of the Essay

Historical and Cultural Context :

  • Paragraph 1 : Provide a brief history of the dowry system. Explain how what might have begun as a voluntary gift giving has evolved into a mandatory demand, deeply ingrained in some cultures as a traditional practice. Discuss the cultural significance and how it varies from one region to another.

Impacts of the Dowry System :

  • Paragraph 2 : Detail the negative impacts of the dowry system. Focus on economic pressure on the bride’s family, increased incidences of domestic violence, and cases of bride burning or suicide when dowry expectations are not met. Use data and examples to highlight the severity of the issue.

Legal Framework and Efforts to Combat the Dowry System :

  • Paragraph 3 : Discuss the legal measures taken to combat the dowry system, such as the Dowry Prohibition Act in India. Evaluate the effectiveness of these laws and the challenges in enforcing them. Mention any non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or campaigns that work towards raising awareness and supporting victims.

Summarize the key points discussed in your essay, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the dowry system’s issues. Conclude with a call to action, suggesting ways in which society, government, and individuals can work together to eradicate this harmful practice. This might include educational campaigns, stronger legal enforcement, or community support systems.

Dowry System Essay Example #1

The dowry system, prevalent in many societies, has long been a cause for concern due to its detrimental effects on gender equality and women’s rights. In this essay, we delve into the dowry system, its causes, consequences, and potential solutions.

The dowry system refers to the practice where the bride’s family provides substantial gifts, valuables, or money to the groom’s family at the time of marriage. What was once intended to assist the newlyweds in starting their lives together has transformed into a system of exploitation and inequality. The dowry system is deeply rooted in cultural norms, social expectations, and economic disparities.

One of the primary causes of the dowry system is the persistence of patriarchal traditions and gender-based discrimination. In societies where women are regarded as inferior and dependent, the dowry becomes a means of compensating the groom’s family for accepting the bride into their household. Additionally, dowry is often seen as a way to enhance the social status of the groom’s family, perpetuating the cycle of societal expectations.

The consequences of the dowry system are far-reaching and detrimental. Women who are unable to meet dowry demands often face physical, emotional, and psychological abuse from their husbands and in-laws. The burden of dowry puts immense financial strain on the bride’s family, often leading to debt and poverty. Moreover, the dowry system reinforces gender inequalities, as it implies that women are commodities to be bought and sold, diminishing their worth and agency within marriage.

To combat the dowry system, several measures can be taken. Education plays a vital role in changing societal attitudes and empowering individuals to challenge harmful traditions. Promoting gender equality through comprehensive educational campaigns can help dismantle the deep-rooted beliefs that perpetuate the dowry system. Legal reforms are also crucial to ensure that laws against dowry-related violence and extortion are strictly enforced, providing protection and justice to victims.

Furthermore, women’s economic empowerment is key to breaking the cycle of dependency and exploitation. By providing women with access to education, skill development, and employment opportunities, they can become financially independent and less vulnerable to dowry demands.

In conclusion, the dowry system continues to be a menace to gender equality and women’s rights. It is essential to address the root causes and consequences of this harmful practice. Through education, legal reforms, and economic empowerment, we can strive towards a society that upholds gender equality, respects the dignity of women, and eliminates the dowry system, thereby creating a more just and equitable future for all.

Dowry System Essay Example #2

The dowry system remains a persistent social issue in many societies, deeply entrenched in cultural norms and traditions. This essay explores the dowry system, its historical context, underlying causes, its impact on individuals and society, and potential strategies to address and overcome this harmful practice.

The dowry system refers to the practice of the bride’s family providing substantial gifts, money, or property to the groom’s family during marriage. Originally intended to support the newlyweds, it has evolved into a system of exploitation and inequality. The dowry system varies across cultures and regions, but it consistently perpetuates gender discrimination, reinforces patriarchal norms, and places financial burdens on the bride’s family.

The dowry system is sustained by a combination of factors, including deeply ingrained patriarchal values, societal expectations, and economic factors. Gender inequality, where women are seen as inferior and dependent, fuels the demand for dowry. The consequences of the dowry system are grave and far-reaching, ranging from financial strain and debt to physical and emotional abuse of women, and even dowry-related violence and dowry deaths.

Addressing the dowry system necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Education and awareness campaigns are crucial to challenge traditional beliefs and promote gender equality. Legal reforms must be implemented and enforced to protect women’s rights and penalize dowry-related offenses. Economic empowerment programs can empower women and reduce their vulnerability to dowry demands. Community engagement, involving religious and community leaders, is vital to change mindsets and promote alternative practices that promote equality and respect within marriages.

Overcoming the dowry system requires a collective effort to challenge cultural norms, raise awareness, and implement comprehensive strategies. By promoting education, enforcing legal reforms, and empowering women economically, we can work towards eliminating the dowry system and fostering a society where marriages are based on equality, respect, and mutual consent.

Dowry System Essay Example #3

The dowry system remains a pervasive social issue in numerous cultures, perpetuating gender inequality and subjecting women to economic and emotional exploitation. This essay delves into the dowry system, examining its historical roots, exploring the factors that sustain it, elucidating its consequences on individuals and society, and proposing potential avenues for change. By shedding light on this entrenched practice, we can foster understanding and advocate for measures that promote gender equality and eradicate the harmful effects of the dowry system.

The dowry system has historical origins intertwined with cultural norms and traditions. It emerged as a way to provide financial support to newlywed couples, ensuring their well-being. However, over time, it has transformed into a mechanism that perpetuates gender-based discrimination and unequal power dynamics within marriages. Cultural expectations and societal pressures play a significant role in upholding this system, as it is seen as a way to maintain social status, reinforce gender roles, and consolidate family alliances.

The dowry system is fueled by a complex interplay of factors. Deeply ingrained patriarchal values and gender biases create an environment where women are considered inferior and require compensation for their perceived liabilities. Economic factors also contribute, as families may demand dowries to secure financial stability or maintain their social standing. This system takes various forms, ranging from discreet financial transactions to extravagant displays of wealth, depending on cultural and regional practices.

The consequences of the dowry system are profound and multifaceted. Women are often subjected to physical and emotional abuse, as their worth is reduced to the monetary value of the dowry. Financial burdens on the bride’s family can lead to debt, impoverishment, and limited opportunities for education and personal growth. The dowry system perpetuates gender inequality, reinforcing harmful stereotypes, limiting women’s agency, and hindering their overall empowerment and social progress.

Addressing the dowry system requires a comprehensive approach encompassing legal, educational, and societal dimensions. Enacting and enforcing stringent laws against dowry-related offenses is essential to protect women’s rights and ensure accountability. Educational initiatives must challenge deeply ingrained gender biases, promoting values of equality, respect, and consent. Empowering women through education and skill development can enhance their economic independence and reduce their vulnerability to dowry demands. Community engagement, involving religious leaders, influential figures, and grassroots organizations, is critical in shifting societal norms and attitudes towards gender equality.

The dowry system persists as a deeply entrenched social issue, perpetuating gender inequality and subjecting women to various forms of exploitation. By unraveling its historical roots, understanding its causes, and advocating for comprehensive change, we can strive towards a society that values gender equality, rejects dowry-based practices, and fosters environments where individuals are respected, empowered, and free from the shackles of inequity.

Final Writing Tips

  • Clarity and Conciseness : Given the limited length of a short essay, make sure each sentence and paragraph succinctly contributes to your argument.
  • Use Credible Sources : Incorporate statistics and facts from credible sources to strengthen your points and add legitimacy to your essay.
  • Reflect Current Trends : Link the discussion to contemporary movements for women’s rights and equality, showing the relevance of the issue in today’s world.
  • Engage the Reader : Use questions, hypothetical scenarios, or direct appeals to engage the reader and provoke critical thinking about the role they can play in combating the dowry system.
  • Proofread : Ensure your essay is free from grammatical and spelling errors. A polished essay reflects the seriousness of your stance on the issue.

About Mr. Greg

Mr. Greg is an English teacher from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in Hong Kong. He has over 5 years teaching experience and recently completed his PGCE at the University of Essex Online. In 2013, he graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a BEng(Hons) in Computing, with a focus on social media.

Mr. Greg’s English Cloud was created in 2020 during the pandemic, aiming to provide students and parents with resources to help facilitate their learning at home.

In his spare time, he likes to compete in powerlifitng events and the odd strongman event!

Whatsapp: +85259609792

[email protected]

dowry system essay english meaning

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Dowry System Essay

Dowry System Essay for Students and Kids in English

Dowry System Essay: Dowry System Essay is an important topic for students to learn because of its moral and societal implications. Dowry system refers to the practice of the bride or her family giving durable goods, cash, moveable or real property to the bridegroom. The dowry system stems from the ancient and skewed inheritance laws of India. At the time, the dowry was done to stop the disinheritance of daughters.

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Moreover, the dowry system can put a financial burden on the bride’s family. This may also lead to the emergence of crime against women, such as emotional and physical abuse, or even homicide. The Indian government outlawed the practice of dowry, specifically under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. From an academic perspective, this topic may be sensitive as it brushes with the age-old Indian traditions and the down-falls associated with this system. Hence, students must articulate their essays carefully and present in a formal manner. Moreover, samples and writing guidelines have also been provided for the students.

Table of Contents

Dowry System Essay – Sample 1 (250 Words Essay)

What is Dowry System?

The Dowry System can be considered as one of the many blights that plague the Indian Society. The system of dowry refers to the practice of giving gifts or other valuables by the bride to the bridegroom. This practice can be traced back to Ancient India when a gift in cash or kind was given to a bride to ensure her independence after marriage.

History of Dowry System

During the Colonial period, the practice of dowry was made mandatory by the British. Ever since them, the trend stuck on and into modern times. India’s booming economy has also encouraged even higher bride prices across all social strata. However, with the higher bride prices came increased violence against women. The act of violence is usually perpetrated by the groom and his in-laws. It can range from emotional blackmail and mental torture to physical violence and coercion.

Types of Dowry Crimes

Other types of dowry crime include fraud – where non-resident Indian men would fraudulently return to India seeking a bride. However, these bridegrooms would then abandon the woman and abscond abroad after gaining possession of the dowry. Other crimes include abetment to suicide, where the husband and his family would threaten the wife, cause emotional trauma, induce depression which can end up with the wife committing suicide. Even more horrifying are dowry murders, where the bride is killed soon after marriage because of the groom and his family’s dissatisfaction with the dowry.

Dowry System Solutions

Though the Indian Government has outlawed the practice of dowry, it still persists in society like a plague. Even today, reports of violence and even suicides emerge due to dowry. We must prevent such practices by educating future generations about such barbaric traditions.

Dowry System Essay – Sample 2 (250 Words Essay)

Introduction of the Dowry System

The Dowry system has existed in India since the olden days. It did have valid reasons when it was introduced; but in today’s modern context, the system causes a lot of issues and problems for our society.

What exactly is Dowry System?

Dowry can be defined as the system where the family of the bride gives durable goods, movable or real property, cash or other items of value to the bridegroom. In the olden days, the bride would be given a sum or items of value to ensure her independence after marriage. However, today’s context has drastically changed for the worse. Greed motivates people to seek dowry; the problem is only exacerbated with domestic violence and other anti-social elements.

History of the Dowry System

The actual origins are not quite apparent, but what was clear is that the colonial rule had enforced this system. At the time, women were not allowed to own any assets, hence, the men were given these assets as an inheritance by the wife’s parents. As stated above, this system did not fit well with modern Indian society.

Repercussions

Domestic violence against women increased- with reports of murders and suicides emerging on the media quite often. Moreover, people have found ways to exploit the system – usually by performing sham marriages – with the husbands abandoning the wives soon after gaining access to the dowry.

Solutions on Dowry System

This age-old practice may have been introduced due to some necessity. However, in today’s context, this practice seems archaic and barbaric, hence, it must be completely stopped. Though it is outlawed by the government, it cannot be fully stopped if the citizens do not condemn it themselves.

FAQ’s on Dowry System

Question 1. What is dowry system in Indian Essay?

Answer: Dowry is defined as a system where the family of the bride gives durable goods, movable or real property, cash or other items of value to the bridegroom.

Question 2. What are the Effects of Dowry System?

Answer: Effects of Dowry System are as follows:

  • Violence and abuse
  • Bride Burning
  • Wife Murder
  • Female Infanticide

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  1. Dowry System Essay For Students In English - BYJU'S

    Dowry System Essay: 500+ Words Essay on Dowry System is provided here to help students write an effective essay on this topic. Usually, essays on topics related to social evil practices are asked in the exam. So, prepare them well to score high marks in the English exam.

  2. Essay on Dowry System in English (150, 200, 250, 500 Words)

    Dowry System Essay in 200 Words Introduction. The dowry system, a long-standing social custom, entails the transfer of money, goods, or property from the bride’s family to the groom’s family upon marriage. Despite legal restrictions in many countries, it persists, posing challenges to gender equality and women’s rights. Socio-cultural Factors

  3. Essay on Dowry System for Students and Children

    500+ Words Essay on Dowry System. Dowry system is followed in India since a very long time. Our ancestors started this system for valid reasons but now it is leading to issues and problems in society. In this essay on dowry, we will see what dowry exactly is, how it started, and why it should be stopped now. History Of Dowry. Dowry system ...

  4. Dowry System Essay: A Social Evil in India - Vedantu

    In India, the dowry system means giving of cash, precious jewellery, and fulfilling other demands made by the party. Over the years, even after so many years of Independence in India, people changed the meaning of dowry to fit their agenda and to meet their needs under the garb of social traditions.

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    The essay explains what the dowry system is, its impact on society and victims, why it is considered a crime and should be banned, and the laws implemented by the government to eliminate it. These essays are written in an easy-to-understand language, making them suitable for use in school or college essay writing, speeches, or debate competitions.

  6. Essay on Dowry System for Students & Children 1000+ Words

    Jan 7, 2021 · In this essay about the dowry system, you will find what dowry exactly is, how it got started, and why it needs to be stopped. History of Dowry System in India. The dowry system started even before Britishers in India. In those days, society doesn’t used to consider this as “Fee” or “Money” that needs to be paid to be the bride’s ...

  7. Dowry System Essay for Students in English - 100 ... - Schools

    Aug 27, 2024 · The Dowry system is one of the longest-standing injustices in Indian society that is connected to marriage. The practice is still common in the 21st century, in both subtle and obvious ways, despite a lot of talk and action against it. Here are a few sample essays on ‘dowry system’. 100 Words Essay On Dowry System

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    Oct 18, 2023 · Dowry System Essay Example #2. The dowry system remains a persistent social issue in many societies, deeply entrenched in cultural norms and traditions. This essay explores the dowry system, its historical context, underlying causes, its impact on individuals and society, and potential strategies to address and overcome this harmful practice.

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    Sep 7, 2023 · Given below are two essays in English for students and children about the topic of ‘Dowry System’ in both long and short form. The first essay is a long essay on Dowry System of 400-500 words. This long essay about Dowry System is suitable for students of class 7, 8, 9 and 10, and also for competitive exam aspirants. The second essay is a ...

  10. Dowry System Essay for Students and Kids in English

    Nov 5, 2023 · Dowry System Essay: Dowry System Essay is an important topic for students to learn because of its moral and societal implications. Dowry system refers to the practice of the bride or her family giving durable goods, cash, moveable or real property to the bridegroom. The dowry system stems from the ancient and skewed inheritance laws of India.