The Chalice. Of Sons and Daughters

In a traditional Transylvanian Roma community, boys alone inherit the family’s badge, the tahtais (chalices), silver cups that come from their ancestors. As a result, couples often resort to sex selective abortions. When a marriage is arranged, the boy’s chalice is given in trust to the bride’s family until the new couple has a son who will inherit it and secure the couple’s marriage. Peli and Nina, a young couple in their mid-20s and parents to a 5-year-old daughter, are striving to conceive a son. While they are living under tremendous strain, taking fertility and ultrasound checks, their respective families are disputing their rights in the chalice pledged when they arranged the couple’s match. As we impatiently wait for the resolution of the conflict, we are invited to reflect on the strength and resilience of women in a male dominated society.