Question

Source Based / Case Based Questions. I. Source Based Question.
Tribal marriages in India are diverse, showcasing unique ways of acquiring mates, governed by cultural norms. Marriage by Capture involves ceremonial or forceful methods, often due to familial or community restrictions or inability to pay a bride price. Marriage by trial tests a young man's courage in a competition, granting him the right to choose a bride if he wins. Marriage by exchange avoids bride price by exchanging sisters between families. Marriage by service requires the groom to work for the bride's family to offset high bride prices.
Name one tribal marriage practice involving a competition.

Hint:

Marriage by trial is a way of proving one’s worthiness for marriage, emphasizing strength and bravery. This tradition highlights the importance of personal achievement in some tribal cultures.

Answer 1

One tribal marriage practice involving a competition is Marriage by Trial. In this practice, a young man is tested to prove his strength, courage, or other virtues through a competitive event. This could include physical contests, hunting skills, or other trials designed to prove his suitability as a partner for marriage. The purpose of this competition is to demonstrate that the young man is worthy of taking a bride, and if he wins, he gains the right to choose his bride.
Step 1: Understanding the cultural significance of marriage by trial.
Marriage by trial is an important tradition in various tribal communities, where physical prowess, mental toughness, or certain social skills are considered vital attributes for a man to marry. By winning the trial, the young man proves his worthiness to marry and secures his place in the community’s social and marital system. This practice has deep cultural roots in societies that value strength, bravery, and a competitive spirit.
Step 2: The challenge aspect of marriage by trial.
In some cases, the trials can be intense, ranging from physical feats to tests of endurance. This might include a hunt, wrestling, or even a ceremonial fight, depending on the traditions of the tribe. The idea is to demonstrate that the young man can protect his bride and provide for the family. Winning the trial often grants him not only a wife but also social respect within the community.