However, it's important to note that the concept of "Stridhanam" in Indian culture is slightly different from the Western concept of "dowry".
Stridhanam refers to the property and possessions that a woman brings with her to her marriage. This includes gifts received from her family, her own earnings, and any property she inherited.
In contrast, dowry traditionally refers to the money or goods given by the bride's family to the groom's family upon marriage. This practice has been linked to exploitation and violence against women in many parts of the world.
Therefore, while "dowry" is the closest English translation of "Stridhanam," it is crucial to understand the nuances and differences between the two concepts.