Tagline: Choose respect over regret; let honor guide you

A girl’s sister recently reached out for advice. The girl’s fiancé’s family had come over to finalize the wedding date, but instead of focusing on the date, they began making various demands. They insisted on branded outfits for 40 close relatives and specified a particular brand for the furniture, which they expect to be sent on a specific date. The groom himself mentioned that he doesn’t wear clothes below 30,000–35,000 rupees, asking for nothing “cheap.”

The groom’s mother also pointed out that in their family, if someone asks for 20,000 rupees for the "shoe-hiding" tradition, the groom’s family would take the baraat (wedding procession) back without hesitation. They also stated that the girl’s dower (mehr) would be only 50,000 rupees.

Understandably, the girl’s family is distressed by this behavior. This engagement was made a year ago, but the wedding was postponed until they could find a match for the girl’s brother, as they wanted to marry both siblings at the same time. Now, both weddings are planned, with the girl's brother’s reception and her wedding departure set for the same day. Initially, this family had also offered their daughter for the girl’s brother, but the girl’s family declined, as they didn’t agree with the practice of “exchange marriage.” Now the brother’s wedding is set elsewhere.

The girl is mentally prepared for marriage, and all arrangements have been made. If they refuse or cancel the wedding now, it will impact the brother’s marriage and raise concerns about what others will think and how they will respond.

My Response: People often reveal their true nature through their own words, while we find ourselves bound by our own self-imposed chains, unable to act. This situation itself is a clear answer, as their lack of respect and character has surfaced even before the marriage. If we prioritize societal norms over the well-being of our children, we might push them into greater difficulties. Sacrificing peace of mind now can save future heartache. Let the brother’s wedding proceed as scheduled, but do not hesitate to speak openly about why this marriage was called off. Sometimes, facing a smaller issue now prevents greater pain later.

Perspective: This scenario serves as a reminder that setting boundaries is essential, even if it means facing judgment. Standing firm in the face of unreasonable demands ensures that respect remains intact, for both the family and the individual.

Hashtags: #HonorFirst #MarriageWisdom #StandForRespect #FamilyValues #SayNoToUnreasonableDemands #MarriageDecisions #ProtectYourDignity