Afghan government bans everything from weddings to paying bride price

The Afghan Ministry of Justice has issued a new law banning excessive wedding customs, rituals and expenses. The document states that such customs are not in line with Islam and are wasteful. The ban covers everything from the betrothal ceremony, pre-wedding and post-wedding receptions, lavish meals, weddings, dowries, engagement ceremonies, the exchange of expensive gifts to the equipment that the bride must bring to the groom's house.

From now on, weddings must take place at the groom's place of residence and within his financial means. Expensive gifts, festive shooting, and car races are prohibited at wedding events.

The groom's family is not obligated to pay a bride price or similar financial requirements.

The document stipulates that, in order to reduce costs, weddings will be held quickly after the engagement ceremony and the conclusion of the marriage contract.