The kalym is one of the most important and ancient customs of the people of Central Asia, traditionally given to the parents of the bride as a payment for bringing up their daughter. Today, it varies from a symbolic sum of 50 to 5,000 dollars and often comes in the form of livestock or expensive household items such as rugs, furniture and appliances.

Proponents of the kalym see it as a positive practice that allows women to know their own worth while others say it turns them into a commodity and prevents many young people from starting a family.

The kalym is determined by a gathering of elders from both families - the amount reflecting the woman’s qualities. If she is university graduate or employed in a good job then a larger sum is requested.

The bride’s parents then return part of the payment in the form of a dowry, which is usually smaller than the kalym.

Those who oppose the practice argue the tradition of the kalym runs contrary to the principle of equality between the sexes.

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