Groom Returns Rs 5.51 Lakh Dowry, Wins Hearts in Rajasthan
A 30-year-old groom from Rajasthan, Paramveer Rathore, won praise for refusing a Rs 5.51 lakh dowry given to him during his wedding. His decision was widely appreciated by his relatives and villagers in Jaisalmer.
A Wedding with a Difference
Paramveer, who is preparing for civil services, married Nikita Bhati in the village of Karaliya on February 14. He arrived at the wedding on horseback, amid traditional music and celebrations.
During the tilak ceremony, the bride’s family presented him with several gifts. Among them was a plate covered with a red cloth, containing Rs 5.51 lakh in cash.
Why He Returned the Dowry
Paramveer felt disheartened to see dowry still being practiced. He didn’t reject it immediately but completed the rituals first. Later, he discussed with his father and family and decided to return the money.
“As an educated person, I believe we must set an example. If we don’t take a stand, who will? I also have a sister, and if we don’t stop this practice, how will society change?” he said.
His father, Ishwar Singh, a farmer, supported his decision. “Women are excelling in every field today. That is why we couldn’t accept the money. I only accepted one coconut and a one-rupee coin as part of the tradition. We must end this dowry system,” he stated.
A Message to Society
Paramveer’s wife, Nikita, is a postgraduate student. After the wedding, the couple returned to their village in Pali, where she continued her studies and took her exams.
Meanwhile, in Karaliya, the bride’s family and the community praised Paramveer’s decision.
Bhawani Singh Bhati, a relative, said, “This wedding has set an example. The groom’s family refused Rs 5.51 lakh, sending a strong message that dowry should be eliminated from our society.”
