Streedhan (also spelt as stree dhan) holds significant cultural and social importance in many communities in India. It is seen as a symbol of the Hindu bride's status, dignity, and security within her marital home. The practice of giving stree dhan dates back centuries and is rooted in the belief that a woman should have financial independence and security, even after marriage.

What Is Streedhan?

Stree dhan, or "woman's wealth" or "Property of Woman" in Hindi, refers to the assets or property that a woman brings to her marital home at the time of marriage. As per Hindu Succession Act, 1956, a woman has full rights over her streedhan. This can include jewellery, clothing, household items, and other valuables that are traditionally given to the bride by her parents and relatives. Stree dhan is considered the personal property of the bride, and she has the right to use, manage, and dispose of it as she wishes. Supreme Court Says Stridhan Is Woman's Absolute Property, Husband Holds No Title Over It.

One of the key aspects of stree dhan is that it is considered the exclusive property of the bride and cannot be claimed by her husband or in-laws. This is enshrined in various laws, including the Hindu Succession Act, which recognises a woman's right to her property, including stree dhan.

Despite its importance, stree dhan can sometimes become a source of conflict within families. There have been cases where women have been harassed or even killed for not bringing adequate stree dhan or for asserting their rights over it. This highlights the need for greater awareness and protection of women's rights, including their rights to their property.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of stree dhan and the need to protect women's rights in this regard. Various organisations and initiatives have been working to raise awareness about stree dhan and to empower women to assert their rights over their property.

Overall, stree dhan is not just about material wealth; it is about recognising and respecting a woman's right to financial independence and security. It is a reminder that women are not just homemakers but also economic contributors and should be treated as such. By protecting and upholding the rights of women to their stree dhan, we can help create a more equitable and just society for all.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 29, 2024 08:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).