Re: Split debate-Spending thousands on a wedding dress
Like others have said, 'expensive' is all relative. Most girls dream about their wedding day since they were little. It is a special day and ideally a once in a lifetime event. if one has the means to spend whatever amount they want, without getting into financial difficulty and has a good time, the one should not judge them and let them spend their money as they see fit. It is not my money or your money, so who are we to tell others how to spend their money?!
There are so many expectations inherent in our culture. For example, Wearing gold on your wedding day, inviting certain people. Our generation may not succumb to these pressures but our parents and the elders in our family still hold these views. Yes people talk, but to minimise it some people do go for the whole 'shebang' in order for these people not to talk. It will still take a generation or so for these expectations to filter out.
Some people find it easier to instill their trust in known designers or do not have the means to spend months having a customised, cheaper outfit made. The current economic situation in Pakistan is not helping matters, and things are much more expensive compared to what they were a few years ago. Yes it is not right and it is heartbreaking to see the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer, but that is where those who give charity can help such people out.
Even in English weddings, bridal gowns cost around £600+ and these are comparatively way much simplier than desi bridal lenghas. None of the fancy embellishment, gota and whatnot.You don't see them wearing their gowns again do you?!
Those who do spend alot, again it is their business. There is no need to give the 'holier than thou' attitude and look towards these people with disdain. Charity is one of the pillars of Islam. One should not feel compelled to give charity as such, yes it is a fundamental part of our religion but one should have the niyaat to give and to give in such a manner that no one knows about. For example, is there not a hadith which goes along the lines of give so your right hand does not know what your left hand is doing and vice versa.
We are accountable for our own actions, so we should look to better ourselves rather than point the fingers at others. Who knows, that same person who spent a large amount of money on a wedding, has a better niyaat and is a better person!