Ceremonies for a Hindu marriage
Full Text
(1) A Hindu marriage may be solemnized in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either party thereto.
(2) Where such rites and ceremonies include the Saptapadi (that is, the taking of seven steps by the bridegroom and the bride jointly before the sacred fire), the marriage becomes complete and binding when the seventh step is taken.
Plain English Summary
Allows a Hindu marriage to be solemnized as per the customary rites of either spouse, specifying that where Saptapadi is customary, the marriage becomes complete upon the seventh step.
Key Legal Elements
- Marriage must be solemnized according to customary rites of either the bride's or groom's community
- Where Saptapadi before the sacred fire is customary, completion of the seventh step is essential for legal validity
- Performance of recognized rites is mandatory; mere cohabitation or agreement does not constitute a valid Hindu marriage
Practical Note
In bigamy (Section 494 IPC/Section 82 BNS) or restitution petitions, proof of essential ceremonies (like Saptapadi and Kanyadan) is mandatory; without solemnization, there is no legally recognized marriage.
हिंदी पाठ
(1) हिन्दू विवाह दोनों पक्षों में से किसी एक की रूढ़िजन्य रीतियों और कर्मकाण्डों के अनुसार अनुष्ठापित किया जा सकेगा।
(2) जहां ऐसी रीतियों और कर्मकाण्डों में सप्तपदी (अर्थात् पवित्र अग्नि के समक्ष वर और वधू द्वारा संयुक्त रूप से सात पग चलना) शामिल है, वहां विवाह सातवां पग पूरा होने पर पूर्ण और बाध्यकारी हो जाता है।