ABSTRACT
The research which exists on dowries in the UK is both descriptive and dated. The giving of dowries is considered a ritual in marriage alliances in South Asian communities. Some respondents felt dowries were given to the bride by her family, others felt dowries were given to the groom by the bride's family, yet others felt dowries were given to the couple. The real measure of wealth is demonstrated by the display of dowries which can increase or decrease the status of 'bride-givers'. The dowry itself is seen as an avenue for families to enhance and display their social status and economic worth. The amount of dowry parents give, determines to a very large extent their status in the community. Dowry itself is moveable property made to the husband's family at the wedding day. Dowry goes hand in hand with a class system and with maintenance of the superiority of higher groups over lower ones.
