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uncommon for <strong>the</strong> bride and <strong>the</strong> groom <strong>to</strong> hire a horse and carriage<br />
and it is also known that people have gone as far as hiring a helicopter<br />
for <strong>the</strong> occasion. This can be nothing but exhibitionism and gross<br />
extravagance. The Qur'\n carries a grave warning for such behaviour.<br />
The cus<strong>to</strong>m of providing guests with transportation goes <strong>to</strong>o far. Those<br />
who are privileged <strong>to</strong> have been invited, should at least make <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
own way.<br />
OFFERING GIFTS 'MO'HARUE’<br />
One elaborate ritual in Hindu marriage is <strong>the</strong> exchange of gifts. For this<br />
rite a special occasion <strong>call</strong>ed Mo'harue is set aside. Depending on <strong>the</strong><br />
geographical area of India, special close relatives begin <strong>the</strong> process of<br />
giving presents followed by o<strong>the</strong>r invited guests. In Gujarat, a state in<br />
India, <strong>the</strong> paternal uncles of <strong>the</strong> bride initiate <strong>the</strong> process. However,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is a lack of sincerity and honesty from both <strong>the</strong> parties.<br />
This form of exhibitionism is against <strong>the</strong> teachings of Isl\m. Isl\m<br />
teaches us <strong>to</strong> offer gifts <strong>to</strong> friends, neighbours and relatives for mutual<br />
benefit and appreciation and streng<strong>the</strong>ning ties. The quality or<br />
expense of <strong>the</strong> gift is not considered but <strong>the</strong> love and value of<br />
friendship it denotes should be assessed. Isl\m promotes <strong>the</strong> giving of<br />
presents but one should be cautious about <strong>the</strong> intention in giving <strong>the</strong><br />
present.<br />
`¬'ishah y said, that <strong>the</strong> Messenger of All\h r is reported <strong>to</strong> have said,<br />
"Give presents <strong>to</strong> one ano<strong>the</strong>r, for a present removes hatred."<br />
Tirmidh| and Ab[ D\w[d<br />
However, in weddings <strong>to</strong>day a great show is made by <strong>the</strong> giver, up <strong>to</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> point that <strong>the</strong> presents are wrapped in transparent paper and<br />
exhibited <strong>to</strong> all before giving. The recipient afterwards makes a note in<br />
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