2. Where the amount of Dower is excessive to the means of the husband.

Where the amount of dower is stipulated for in any contract of dower by a Mohammedan is excessive with reference to the means of the husband the entire sum provided in the contract shall not be awarded in any suit by decree in favour of the plaintiff, or by allowing it by way of set off lien or otherwise to the defendant ; but the amount of dowcr to be allowed by the courts shall be reasonable with reference to the means of the husband and the status of the wife. This rule shall be applicable whether the suit to enforce the contract be brought in the husband's life tima or after his death.