Dowry Calculator
खरी किंमत जाणून घ्या — हुंडा नको!
An awareness tool, not a shopping list. See the real legal consequences of dowry under Indian law, and what that same money could build for a couple's future if invested instead.
Enter an amount above to see its legal consequences and what that money could really achieve when invested in the couple's future instead.
The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 — What the Law Says
Dowry — cash, gifts or property demanded from a bride's family as a condition of marriage — has been illegal in India for over six decades. Yet it continues to pressure families and, in its worst form, contributes to harassment and violence against women. Here is what the law actually says:
Section 3 — Giving or Taking Dowry
Minimum 5 years imprisonment and a fine of at least ₹15,000, or the value of the dowry — whichever is higher.
Section 4 — Demanding Dowry
6 months to 2 years imprisonment, with a fine up to ₹10,000. Merely asking for dowry is an offence, even if nothing is paid.
IPC Section 498A — Cruelty
Cruelty by a husband or his relatives, including dowry harassment, is punishable with up to 3 years imprisonment and a fine.
IPC Section 304B — Dowry Death
A woman's death within 7 years of marriage under suspicious circumstances linked to dowry harassment is punishable with 7 years to life imprisonment.
This is general information for awareness, not legal advice. If you or someone you know is facing dowry harassment, please consult a lawyer or contact the helplines below.
Facing Dowry Harassment? Get Help
Women Helpline
181
Police
100 / 112
National Commission for Women
ncw.nic.in
Why MarathiVivah Built This
Every year, families across Maharashtra and India face pressure around dowry during marriage negotiations — despite it being illegal for decades. This calculator exists to reframe that conversation: instead of asking “how much dowry,” ask “what could this money actually do for the couple's life together?”
MarathiVivah is committed to helping families find matches based on compatibility, values and respect — not transactions. We encourage every profile on our platform to pledge for a dowry-free marriage.
हुंडा नाही, नाते हवे. आपल्या मुलामुलींसाठी योग्य जोडीदार शोधा — हुंडामुक्त विवाहासाठी आजच नोंदणी करा.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dowry illegal in India?
Yes. Giving, taking or demanding dowry is a criminal offence under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, regardless of religion, caste or community.
What is the punishment for giving or taking dowry?
Minimum 5 years imprisonment and a fine of at least ₹15,000 or the value of the dowry, whichever is higher (Section 3). Demanding dowry alone attracts 6 months to 2 years imprisonment (Section 4).
Are wedding gifts given voluntarily also dowry?
Gifts given without any demand or condition, and properly listed per the Dowry Prohibition (Maintenance of Lists of Presents) Rules, are generally not treated as dowry. Anything demanded or given as a condition of marriage is dowry.
Where can I report dowry harassment?
Call the Women Helpline (181) or Police (100 / 112), or file a complaint at your nearest police station under Section 498A IPC and the Dowry Prohibition Act.
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