The Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961, along with Sections 304B and 498A of the IPC, makes the demand, payment, or acceptance of dowry punishable by law. But despite being criminalized, the practice of dowry remains prevalent in many parts of India. However, many men have taken it upon themselves to challenge this regressive practice.
In Rajasthan’s Sikar district, a groom named Jai Narayan Jakhar from Danta Ramgarh refused to accept any dowry from his bride’s family. Jai, who works as a Junior Engineer in the Public Welfare Department, married Anita Verma, a postgraduate, with just one rupee and a coconut as symbolic gestures. Jai also encouraged Anita to support her parents with her income once she gets a job, reported News18.
Jai praised Anita’s parents for their efforts in educating her, stating that education is as valuable as wealth today. He shared that his grandfather and father always opposed social evils like dowry, inspiring him to follow in their footsteps. Jai’s family fully supported his decision to have a dowry-free wedding.
Anita, who is preparing for a government job, was moved by his gesture and expressed her sincerest gratitude towards Jai’s family.
They assured her that she could send her salary to her parents for a year if she secured a government position, allowing her parents to benefit from their investment in her education.
Danta Ramgarh MLA Virendra Singh, who attended the wedding, commended the couple’s decision as a significant step towards eradicating the dowry system.
By defying the evil tradition of dowry, Jai Narayan Jakhar has set an exemplary example for others to follow!