Superficially, India appears patriarchal. However, anthropologists argue that India has a "hidden matriarchy." The mother-in-law, the bahus (daughters-in-law), and the ladli (beloved daughter) hold immense emotional and financial sway. While the man may sign the checks, the woman decides the savings, the marriage alliances, and the religious rituals. The joint family system, though declining in metros due to migration, is still the gold standard for emotional security.