Dowry, Deception, and Marriage-Based Trafficking: Qualitative Case Studies of Mysore Kallyanam in Kerala, India

This study examines Mysore Kallyanam, a deceptive marriage practice shaped by dowry-related pressures in Kerala’s Malabar region, where trafficking may be concealed within matrimonial alliances. Drawing on four survivor case narratives and two stakeholder interviews, the qualitative study explores how brokers and perpetrators used deception, coercion and relocation to facilitate domestic servitude, forced labor, violence and sexual exploitation. Findings show that dowry demands, costly wedding expectations and economic vulnerability made such proposals appear attractive to disadvantaged families. The study recommends community awareness, stronger institutional responses, survivor-centered rehabilitation and careful evaluation of local initiatives such as Nilambur’s Dowry-Free Village program model.