Gentlemen, these are the mistakes you make when going for ‘ruracio’

Couples ought to discuss and agree on how much dowry they will be able to pay

This week, many WhatsApp groups were treated to some rather detailed document on ruracio (dowry) requirements. Some items on the list were downright ridiculous - it turns out that one has to pay a special rate for the goat meant to lead other ruracio goats, and that there is an inflated rate for a soda opener. Some people like to assume that Christianity and modernity have wiped off some of these marriage traditions and rituals.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Somewhere deep in the hearts of many brides to be and their families, lies a burning desire to command the right ruracio and the attendant ruracio ceremonies and pageantry.