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But why?

Say no to those who demand dowry, student R. Anjoo Sharan tells brides-to-be

A few years ago, when Noida girl Nisha Sharma called off her wedding and had the bridegroom's family arrested for demanding dowry, I naively believed that her bold move will generate an anti-dowry revolution across the country.

That very year, my college president boldly declared in an elocution competition that she would never marry someone who demanded dowry.

Last year, she married an NRI who demanded an exorbitant dowry. Whatever happened to your zealous speech, I asked.

Only to be told that: "He's a prize catch. There's nothing wrong in giving him such a huge sum, because he's hot property in the marriage market." She even advised me to steer clear of anyone who did not ask for a dowry. That only means the boy is a loser, was her reasoning.

Time to face the hard truth. Asking and giving dowry cannot be abolished by any law.

Only the brides concerned can take a decision.

Why should girls marry those who demand a dowry? Most of us are employed, empowered, independent and educated.

Despite this, we meekly succumb to marry a guy who has eyes only on our parents' money.

How can we find happiness in a family that is plotting to wipe out our parents' hard earned savings? Just think about this when it is your turn to take a decision.

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