The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c7.s2.12

c7.s2.12

There are a few cases of Āsura marriages recorded in ancient Indian tradition. In Vedic times, the custom of the bride purchase was known, but not held in esteem; the son-in-law in such cases was described as a *vijāmātā* or a disreputable son-in-law.¹ To Pāli literature also the custom is not unknown; the father of Isidāsī, one of the nuns of the *Therīgāthā*, had received a bride-price for her in her marriage (Vv. 120 and 153). The *Dhammapāda* also mentions the custom (v. 215 and commentary). In the epics we find that at the time of the marriages of Kaikeyī, Gāndhārī and Mādrī a heavy bride-price had to be paid to their guardians. It must be, however, pointed out that though the custom undoubtedly prevailed in some sections of the community, it was vehemently condemned by the leaders of society. Those who followed it knew that what they were doing was not commendable. This would be quite clear from the great hesitation which Śalya felt in informing Bhīshma¹ that if he wished to secure his sister Mādrī as a bride for Pāṇḍu, he would have to pay a good bride-price. He opens the topic apologetically. "There is a family custom with us which whether good or bad, I have got to follow. You also know it. Why then do you want me to say in so many words that you should pay a bride-price? It is quite clear from the tone and contents of this speech that Śalya recognised the custom as undesirable, though he had not the moral courage to give it up in order to set a better example for his successors. Perhaps the greed of money was too strong for the feeble inner voice.