This refers to the article “People of the same gotra do not necessarily have the same origin” (Open Page, July 4). Not marrying in the same gotra (sagotra) is an issue that is prevalent among a few communities. The validity or otherwise of the practice is debatable. It may even be a superstition. But it is an age-old belief and practice. Sagotra marriages do take place occasionally. Let those who are against them continue to have their opinion. But they should not treat intra-gotra marriages as a sin or an atrocity leading to hatred, enmity and killing.
A. Ranganathan , Coimbatore
On beliefs, practices and customs, particularly with respect to marriage, there are variations among regions and people belonging to the same caste or community. For example, in north India, the maternal uncle's or the paternal aunt's daughter is considered a boy's sister and marriages in such relationships are prohibited. Whereas, in the south, marriages between such cousins are common.
It is difficult to say what is right and what is wrong, as it is a matter of centuries-old practice and belief. It is time society allowed marriages without insisting on man-made conditions.
Krithika Chidambaram , Chennai
In olden days, people travelled far and wide. In those days, when polygamy was in vogue and communication was difficult, there was the danger of a son and daughter of the same person marrying each other unknowingly. This was effectively prevented by banning same gotra marriages. The argument is no longer relevant.
Jayanthi Mohan , Chennai
