Question

What’s the dowry system
What’s the purpose of dowry

Answer 1

The giving of gifts or cash to groom on behalf of bride's family, common practice in India. Some says it is cultural practice and closer connection between both families

Answer 2

One of the basic functions of a dowry has been to serve as a form of protection for the wife against the very real possibility of ill treatment by her husband and his family. ... In some societies a dowry provides the wife with a means of support in case of her husband's death.