The Concept of Asura Marriage
Asura Marriage
Definition
Asura Marriage is one of the eight classical forms of Hindu marriage described in ancient texts like the Manusmriti.
It is characterized by the payment of a bride price (wealth or gifts) by the groom or his family to the bride’s family or the bride herself.
The groom wins the bride by giving gifts, often seen as purchasing her consent or her family’s approval.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Payment | Groom or his family offers wealth, gifts, or money to the bride or her family. |
| Consent | Bride’s consent may not be essential; focus is on the gift/payment. |
| Nature of Marriage | Considered a marriage by purchase. |
| Social Status | Traditionally associated with lower social status or warrior class; sometimes seen as less ideal compared to other forms like Brahma marriage. |
| Examples of Gifts | Gold, cattle, horses, land, money, or other valuable items. |
| Legal Status Today | Not recognized as valid under modern Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; considered void or voidable if forced. |
Comparison with Other Forms
| Other Forms | Contrast with Asura Marriage |
|---|---|
| Brahma Marriage | Bride given freely by her father to a learned groom, without payment. |
| Gandharva Marriage | Marriage by mutual consent and love, without gifts or rituals. |
| Rakshasa Marriage | Marriage by force or abduction. |
Social and Ethical Considerations
Historically, Asura marriage was criticized in scriptures for treating women as property.
Modern Hindu law promotes marriages based on consent and equality, making Asura marriage incompatible with contemporary values.
Such marriages could be challenged under laws prohibiting buying or selling of brides and forced marriage.
Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Marriage by purchase (bride price paid) |
| Consent | Often minimal or absent |
| Social Acceptance | Generally less esteemed historically |
| Legal Recognition | Not recognized under current law |
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