Dahej (film)

Dahej is a 1950 Hindi social drama film directed by V. Shantaram. The film addresses the issue of dowry, a practice prevalent in Indian society where the bride's family is expected to provide gifts and wealth to the groom's family upon marriage. The film portrays the negative consequences of dowry, including financial strain on the bride's family and potential mistreatment of the bride if the dowry is deemed insufficient. Dahej aimed to raise awareness about the social evils associated with dowry and advocate for its eradication. It features a cast of established actors and utilizes melodrama to convey its message. The film was part of a larger trend in Indian cinema in the mid-20th century, where filmmakers addressed social issues and attempted to use cinema as a tool for social reform. While the film received attention for its subject matter, its cinematic merit and overall impact are subject to varying critical perspectives.