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Ceremonies of a Hindu Marriage

Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 recognizes the ceremonies and customs of marriage.
A Hindu marriage may be solemnized in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either party to the marriage .The parties to the marriage fulfill the conditions prescribed as follows:

(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 saptpadi (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.

Ceremonies vary according to custom. The presentation of a pair of cloth by the bridegroom to the bride (pudava koda) is an important customary rite among the Nair caste in Kerala. Tying of a sacred thread around the neck of the bride (Mangalya Sutra or Tali ) is another rite. Exchange of rings or garlands also is common. A marriage will be valid only if the ceremony through which it is solemnized is sanctioned by the religion of either party as customary ceremony. More details >>