What is Hindu Marriage Registration?
Registration under the Hindu Marriage Act confirms a marriage that was already solemnised through customary rites and ceremonies (for example saptapadi, the seven steps around the sacred fire, where that is the custom). The Registrar does not perform the marriage.
Because registration depends on a valid ceremony, the Registrar usually asks for evidence that it took place, such as photographs and an invitation card or a certificate from the place of marriage.
Who may need this service
- Hindu, Sikh, Jain or Buddhist couples married with religious rites
- Couples married in a temple or gurdwara
- Couples married through an Arya Samaj ceremony (both parties Hindu)
Legal framework
Section 5 of the Hindu Marriage Act lists the conditions for a valid Hindu marriage and section 7 recognises the customary ceremonies. Section 8 enables states to make rules for registration.
In Delhi, the Delhi (Compulsory Registration of Marriage) Order, 2014 makes registration compulsory and the SDM of the area acts as the Registrar.
Eligibility and key conditions
- Both parties are Hindus in the wide legal sense (including Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs)
- Groom at least 21 and bride at least 18 at the time of marriage
- No living spouse at the time of marriage
- Not within prohibited degrees or sapinda relationship unless custom permits
- The marriage was actually solemnised with applicable rites
Documents generally required
- Online application with photographs
- Age proof for both
- Identity and address proof
- Wedding photographs and invitation card
- Certificate from temple, gurdwara or Arya Samaj where applicable
- Affidavits as required
- Witness ID and address proof
Document requirements may vary depending on the applicable legal route, individual circumstances and the concerned authority.
Procedure
- Confirm eligibility. Check that the Hindu Marriage Act applies to both of you.
- Prepare documents. Collect ID, age proof and ceremony evidence.
- Online application. Apply to the SDM office for your area.
- Appearance. Appear with witnesses and original documents.
- Certificate. Receive the certificate after verification.
Common problems we see
- One partner is not Hindu, Sikh, Jain or Buddhist (then the Special Marriage Act may apply instead)
- No photographs of the ceremony
- Registration many years after the marriage
How an advocate can help
- Confirm the correct Act
- Prepare affidavits and check ceremony proof
- Guide you on the appointment and verification
Where we assist
We assist couples across Delhi and Delhi NCR, including Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad. The authority you approach depends on where you live and, for registration, where the marriage took place.
Related services
Legal guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Hindu and a Sikh register under the Hindu Marriage Act?
Is an Arya Samaj certificate enough?
Can we register if we married years ago?
Disclaimer: This page gives general information about the law and procedure as understood at the time of writing. It is not legal advice for your situation. Requirements may vary depending on the parties' circumstances, applicable law, jurisdiction and the concerned authority, and rules and forms change from time to time. Please consult an advocate before acting.