Wow.
I have to say that Israfil's attitude in the way he addresses Jenni does nothing to recommend Muslim man or support his words.  He does not show respect or caring for a woman's dilemma, and a simple question that could be answered with compassion.  Instead he attacks her for the way she asks her question and cries 'offensive'.  He speaks very condescendingly.

I would ask Jenni, if the custom of which she speaks appears only in the Muslim communities in India and southeast asia or in all families of all faiths.  Islam is practiced differently in different places according to culture. That would answer the culture vs. faith question.  And yes it is up to the individuals of any country to determine their own culture... and dialogue with people of other cultures helps in that process.