Duhita Dui Kula Ku Hita | ଦୁହିତା ଦୁଇ କୂଳକୁ ହିତ

Duhita Dui Kula Ku Hita | ଦୁହିତା ଦୁଇ କୂଳକୁ ହିତ

By : Lokanth Mishra

There is a beautiful Sanskrit phrase : “Duhita, Dvau Kula Ku Hita” ( दुहिता, द्वौ कुल कु हित, ଦୁହିତା ଦୁଇ କୂଳକୁ ହିତ )
Breakdown :
Duhita : Daughter (feminine noun)
Dvau : Two (numeric adjective)
Kula : Family, clan, or lineage (noun)
Ku : For, to, or towards (preposition)
Hita : Welfare, benefit, or good (noun)
Meaning :
“A daughter is for the welfare of two families.”
Interpretation :
This phrase signifies that a daughter: Brings joy and benefit to her parents’ family (natal family). Becomes a vital part of her husband’s family (marital family) after marriage.
In traditional Hindu society, this phrase emphasizes: Daughter’s role in maintaining family harmony.
Her contribution to both families’ well-being.In modern context, this phrase can be interpreted as:
Recognizing daughters as valuable members of society. Acknowledging their potential to positively impact both their birth and marital families.This phrase is often used to : Emphasize the importance of daughters. Promote gender equality.
Celebrate daughters’ contributions. In our Hindu traditions, daughters have been revered and valued for their contributions to family and society. Here are some significant aspects:

Traditional Roles :

1. Laxmi incarnate: Daughters are considered embodiments of Goddess Laxmi, bringing prosperity and good fortune.
2. Family caretaker: Daughters are expected to care for parents, siblings, and husbands.
3. Cultural preservation: Daughters help preserve family traditions, customs, and values.

Ritualistic Significance:

1. Kanya Dan: Giving away daughter in marriage is considered a sacred ritual.
2. Grihapravesh: Daughters are involved in welcoming husbands into their marital home.
3. Shraddha: Daughters can participate in Shraddha rituals.

Scriptural References:

1. Manusmriti (3.20): “A daughter is a treasure, a jewel, and a source of happiness.”
2. Mahabharata (Anushasana Parva 45.35): “Daughters are equal to sons in inheritance.”
3. Rigveda (5.61.6): “Daughters are born to bring joy and prosperity.”

Festivals and Celebrations:

1. Navaratri: Celebrates feminine power and divine feminine.
2. Durga Puja: Honors Goddess Durga, symbolizing female strength.
3. Karva Chauth: Daughters-in-law fast for husbands’ well-being.

Changing Perspectives:

1. Education and empowerment: Modern Hindu society emphasizes daughters’ education and independence.
2. Equal inheritance: Laws now ensure equal inheritance rights for daughters.
3. Breaking stereotypes: Daughters are encouraged to pursue careers and personal goals.