The recent news of increasing dowry-related deaths is not just heartbreaking, it is a reflection of how deeply society has failed its daughters. Every time a young woman loses her life to the cruelty of greed and pride, it is not just one death, it is the death of humanity, compassion, and the very essence of love. Parents must understand that teaching daughters endurance in the face of abuse is not strength, it is silent suffering. No amount of gold, gifts, or property can ever buy respect or peace in a marriage where a woman is treated as a commodity. Marriage should be a bond of love, not a business transaction sealed with dowry demands. To every parent: please teach your daughters that coming home after a failed marriage is far better than coming home in a coffin. A broken marriage can heal; a lost life never can. Teach her that her dignity and safety are worth more than societal gossip. Teach her that self-worth is not tied to marital status, and walking away from cruelty is not weakness, it is courage. To sons, teach empathy, not entitlement. Teach them that a woman is not a price to be paid but a partner to be respected. Until both parents and children unlearn these toxic traditions, the headlines of dowry deaths will continue to haunt us. Let us build a world where our daughters are not judged for the jewelry they bring, but for the joy they deserve. Let us promise to raise voices louder than the silence that kills. Because no tradition, no pride, and no fear is worth the life of a daughter.
Risalath Muhammethu Jakeypher
