My lucky Charm

04 | Money matters

                                                           ~~~~~Rajan~~~~~

The past few months had been a terrible one for me. Both in terms of job and life at home. We have fixed marriage for my younger sister. Being the elder son I had the responsibilities to take care of my family.

My parents had a late marriage. Before I even complete my studies, my Father got retired.

My mother is a home maker. I wanted to do higher studies. But considering the family financial situations I opted out of it.

I am working as a sales executive in a marketing firm. Side by side, I do some courses to upskill and transform to another job which earns me a good salary.

I am not ok with the job I am currently posted with. Despite of my hardwork, I did not get the expected job and salary.

My search for another job is futile. I am in need of money due to the poor financial condition of my family.

The future inlaws of my sister, who seemed to be good initially, now started demanding more dowry.

They had not asked it outrightly, but with the way the speak, it easy for any one to understand their expectations.

I do not want to take the risk of stopping the marriage. Once stopped, it is very difficult for a girl to get married again. Even if the fault is at the guy, only a girl will be blamed for it. 

Moreover we are not in a good position to take that brave decision considering our current state.

You might wonder what if they keep asking money even after marriage.

I have clearly stated them about our financial strength and what all we could do.

Only on the account of not pestering or giving any difficulties regarding money ,we agreed to proceed with this alliance.

And I have faith on my mapilai(groom) , who will not allow his parents to say anything about my sister after marriage. 

As much as my sister loves him, he too loves her the same way. It was clearly evident in his face during their engagement. 

My sister too is very much in  love with him. It can be clearly seen in her face every time we talk about him. I do not want to ruin it. 

Even this dowry matter is something his parents had asked us separately after the engagement.

I am  pretty sure, the groom does not know. Though asking dowry directly or indirectly is not good, I accepted to offer them.

His parents had agreed to have a simple marriage in a mini hall with less number of guests.

Only thing they wanted is the girl to bring them home a good amount of jewels in Gold and some silver items. 

My parents had saved some amount and jewels for her marriage.  But that will not suffice.

I have applied for loan and waiting for its sanction. My financial situation suddenly has gone very tight. 

We are normal middle class family who live with whatever we have and were contented. We never had any issues with food or place.

Fortunately, the house that we stay was built long time back by my grandparents which were passed on to us.

While thinking all this, I received a call in my mobile. It was my relationship manager from the bank for the loan that I applied.

With the hope of hearing a good news, I attended it. Talking for few minutes, I cut the call with the sad face and heavy heart.

My loan was rejected due to insufficient background availability for loan repayment.  I am in need of money immediately.

I don't have my mother's jewels to mortgage as those are also included in the list of jewels that will be given as dowry.

I tried to explain the situation and give the ornaments as soon as possible before or on the day of marriage to the groom's parents.

But they were hell bent on getting it before the wedding. After much persuasion, they agreed to give me 2 weeks time.

I need to find money by hook or crook in this 2 weeks of time. Only God knows how.