Save Aster from the Dilemma of Dowry

Aster Tariq taught Christianity for 3 years at the Kinnaird Girls High School in Lahore. During her career she picked up the certainty and respect of her associates, Muslims included. But the only Christian religious educator in Punjab’s state funded schools has been wetting her pillows for months as she can’t find enough money for dowry to start a married life.

Dowry is a tradition in Pakistan which began as a mark of showing respect to the groom’s family. But it has gradually been misused by many. Dowry might be practised as tradition but it is used as a source of income by the groom’s family and if bride’s parents don’t fulfil their demands, the bride herself is treated badly, beaten or in worst cases forced to die.

Although it seems that the question has been settled and the demands have been met at the beginning, the couple or the parents will have a large amount of debts to pay in the future like a heavy load as an inheritance.

The non compliance to such whims can lead to a lot of verbal abuse from the would be mother-in-law at every possible opportunity. Please help her make enough dowry to establish a well settled life and start a happy life.

Things required for dowry are:

• A Bed set including pillow and mattress
• Refrigerator, TV, Microwave oven, and Washing machine.
• A dining table (for 4 persons)
• Basic culinary set
• A cooking range.