Marriage is to join two hearts for a better life. But in Afghanistan there are many traditional issues that are harmful for the beauty of new couple. Afghan’s Weddings are famous because of extravagance. There are hundreds and in some cases thousands of guests in their wedding parties.

In addition, the groom must accept any demands of the bride. He should welcome the famous singer, the best beauty salon and as well the greatest hall decoration. Beside these he should buy expensive clothes and jewels. I do not forget the most famous wedding hall with high price dinner and lots of guests is also acceptable. This is a culture that they don’t have a way to escape from even if the girl does not request anything.

Thus young couples and their families have been left with crippling debts and forced them to work hard to pay for the huge cost of hosting a wedding. Another problem is bride price (Toyana), in some families it is usual that the boy should pay bride price for the girl’s father before get engage. Although the custom of paying for a bride officially frowned upon, is practiced widely.

Wedding expenses have banned youth to get married. This caused that youth look to the wrong ways. Beside, this problem caused that many youth get addicted to narcotics and harm their health; also it brings mental illness for youth.  

 

In some parts of Afghanistan, elders and religious leaders have banned expensive engagement and wedding ceremonies. It is hoped that the ban will allow young men to marry their brides more quickly. This initiative would not only helpful for youth, but it is helpful for all people. It would be better that families save money for future of the new couple instead of wasting money on unnecessary things.

By Mohammad Elias Hatimi