family and inheritance

                                                      FAMILY and INHERITANCE

FAMILY and INHERITANCE :-  Family system is prevalent in Lahoul with little variation in different valleys. In Chandra and Bhaga valley, the joint family system is very rigid. All the family members not only father, sons and brothers, but also uncles and nephews of the same descent live and owns the property in common. The system of strong joint family bond  is a consequence of polyandry which holds the family together. But due to advent of modern civilization in the area, the system is under serious strain. A number of separation cases year after year indicates that tendency is developing among the people to live separately in nuclear families and own property. The system of inheritance is regulated by custom in Lahoul. After the death of father, the property is equally divided among sons. If any one of them dies without any issue, his property is again divided among his living brothers. Daughters can also inherit the property, if she has no brothers,. After marriage, the husband of a girl has to live with her and look after the property of his wife. In case a person dies without any issue his widow is the only legal heir.