Maras And The Bride Price

Abstract

The Maras who inhabited the southern part of Mizoram, India are distinctive tribe who are known for their expensive bride prices. However, the complicated marriage system and expensive bride price holds a great significance in safeguarding the cultural tradition and practices of the Maras. Despite the fact that certain elements of the traditions in respect of marriage have now become obsolete under the influence of the new forces unleashed by Christianity and modernization, the peculiar practice of expensive bride prices continues till today. But, in recent times, a marked difference is noted in terms of the items of the bride prices, the traditional items being replaced substantially by modern items.