The incident quickly gained traction, with several posts criticizing the apparent exchange of a large sum of money during the wedding ceremony.

Clarification video with wife

Following the backlash, Panwar addressed the issue in a clarification video alongside his wife. The couple explained that the money was not dowry ("dahej"), but rather a traditional gift or "daan" given during wedding rituals.

Panwar strongly denied any involvement in dowry demands, stating that he never asked for money from his wife's family. He also pointed out that his wife is a doctor and comes from a family of doctors, suggesting that the allegations were misplaced.

At one point, he remarked that it would be illogical to assume he would ask for dowry, given their respective professional backgrounds.

"It was a surprise," says wife

Panwar's wife added that the amount was unexpected even for him. She explained that the cash was presented during a wedding ritual and that the couple did not anticipate it becoming a public controversy.

She also suggested that the perception of the amount as "large" was relative, saying people often spend similar sums on purchases like cars or gold, and therefore the reaction online felt exaggerated to them.

Panwar further commented that, given his wife's family background, the amount did not seem unusual to them, adding that people were overreacting to its value.

Online reactions remain divided

Despite the clarification, the issue continues to generate discussion online. Several users questioned the legality and ethics of accepting such a large cash gift during a wedding.

One user pointed out that bank transactions above certain limits are reported to tax authorities, questioning the feasibility of such cash exchanges. Others emphasized that regardless of intent or labeling, dowry remains illegal under Indian law, and public figures should be more careful about such practices.

Ongoing debate

While Panwar maintains that the money was a ceremonial gift and not dowry, the incident has reignited conversations around wedding customs, financial transparency, and the legal boundaries of gift-giving in marriages in India.