Did you know that if both the parties getting married are Hindus, then an Arya Samaj marriage can be registered under the Hindu Marriage Act at the nearest office of the sub-registrar? Keep reading to learn more!
Arya Samaj Marriage are fairly simple to carry out, and the ceremonies themselves are pretty straightforward. It can be performed by couples of different religions who belong under the large umbrella of Hindus in India. This is usually the preference for couples where one spouse practices Buddhism, Jainism, or Sikhism. Validation Act of 1937 under the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955.
Arya Samaj Marriage in India
It is a monotheistic Indian Hindu reform movement based on the belief that the Vedas are infallible. The sannyasi Dayanand Saraswati founded the samaj on 7 April 1875. It was the first Hindu organisation to introduce proselytisation.
Two Types of Marriage Registrations
When registering an Arya Samaj marriage, couples have two options: the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and the Special Marriage Act, 1954.
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Under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
This act is for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. To register, visit the sub-registrar’s office in the area where the marriage took place or where one partner has lived for at least six months. Even if the marriage has already been performed according to traditional rituals, you can still register it under this act.
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Under the Special Marriage Act, 1954
This act is open to all Indian citizens, regardless of religion. To register, the couple must give a 30-day notice to the sub-registrar in the area where either partner resides. The notice will be displayed publicly for 30 days. If there are no objections, the marriage is registered. This process does not require any religious ceremony, making it a suitable option for couples who do not qualify for registration under the Hindu Marriage Act.
Who is Eligible for an Arya Samaj Marriage?
- The groom’s minimum age has to be 21 whereas the bride should be 18 years of age.
- Any person who is a Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, or Sikh can perform Arya Samaj Marriage
- Inter-Caste Marriages and Inter-Religious Marriages are eligible in an Arya Samaj Marriage. But none of the marrying persons should be Muslim, Christian, Parsis or Jews.
- If a non-Hindu couple would like to perform the marriage, the Samaj allows them to convert through Shuddhi.
| Note – Muslims, Christians, Parsis or Jews, if, out of their free will and consent, are ready to convert and embrace the Hindu Religion, the Arya Samaj Mandir performs a ritual called Shuddhi. Shuddhi means purification for such conversion, and thereafter, such a convert can perform Arya Samaj Marriage. |
6 Step Procedure for Arya Samaj Registration
To register your Arya Samaj marriage, follow these six simple steps:
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Step 1: Book an Appointment
First, book an appointment with the sub-divisional magistrate’s office in your area. This is where you will receive your marriage certificate. Make sure to book the appointment at least 15 days before your wedding date.
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Step 2: Fill Out the Registration Form
Next, fill out the marriage registration form. This form will ask for details about the bride and groom, such as names, ages, addresses, and religions. You can get this form from the magistrate’s office or download it from their website.
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Step 3: Submit the Form and Required Documents
Submit the completed form along with the necessary documents. These include proofs of date of birth, identity, address, and religion, as well as photographs. A small fee is also required for the registration process.
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Step 4: Bring Two Witnesses
On the day of your appointment, bring two witnesses who know you and your partner well. They should have their identity proofs with them and will need to sign the form as witnesses to your marriage.
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Step 5: Verification
The sub-divisional magistrate will verify all the details and documents you have provided. This step ensures that all information is accurate and complete.
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Step 6: Receive Your Marriage Certificate
Finally, after verification, you will receive your marriage certificate from the sub-divisional magistrate. This certificate is a legal document that confirms your marriage according to Arya Samaj rules.
Consequently, after fulfilling all the formalities, the magistrate’s office will grant the marriage certificate, which is recognised as legally valid by the court.
Documents Required for Solemnisation
- 4 copies of coloured photographs of both the bride and the groom.
- Proofs for the DOB and address proof of both parties.
- Two witnesses to witness the wedding.
- In case one of the spouses is a widow/widower, then the widow/ widower has to submit the death certificate of the dead spouse.
- If one of the spouses is a foreign citizen or holds a foreign passport or is having a foreign residential address, then the spouse requires the Certificate of the present marital status of the party/ NOC from the concerned Embassy and a Valid VISA.
Advantages of Marrying Under Arya Samaj Customs and Rituals
- Marriages are very cost-effective as the Arya Samaj mandir charges a very little fee to conduct the marriage.
- The entire marriage rites take place within a few hours only.
- Only two witnesses are enough to validate the marriage, they may be anybody including parents, siblings, friends or anybody.
- In practicality, one can plan within 30 minutes, then go to Mandir and complete the rest of the ritual within an hour.
Arya Samaj Marriage Fees:
This marriage will cost you anywhere between ₹ 5000 and ₹10,000 depending on where the wedding is held. It is also dependent on your plans and guestlist. These Mandir marriage prices include both the wedding rites and the marriage certificate.
The Validity of the Arya Samaj Certificate:
The Arya Samaj marriage certificate is not a legitimate document under international law. A marriage certificate issued by the sub-registrar is the only one that is valid. If both parties are Hindus, It can be registered under the Hindu Marriage Act at the local sub-office. registrar’s
When Is Court Marriage Better?
It’s important to understand that an Arya Samaj marriage certificate is not valid proof of the couple’s marriage abroad. The certificate holds value only in India. This problem, however, can be easily resolved by registering the marriage in the sub-registrar’s office. It must also be noted that in case you receive the certification in a local language, then you will have to translate the same to English to use it as evidence in countries outside India. Hence a Court marriage- https://courtmarriage-gov.in/ is better for those couples looking to live or work abroad.
Arya Samaj Tradition and Rituals
The tradition and rituals bring simplicity and sanctity to the marriage process, distinguishing it from traditional Hindu weddings. The ceremony, lasting only 1 to 2 hours, necessitates minimal essentials: marriage paperwork, two Jaimalas (garlands), and sweets. Selecting a nearby Arya Samaj Marriage and submitting the required documents ensures a seamless wedding experience.
On the auspicious day, the Pandit initiates the ceremony by elucidating sacred Vedic hymns, setting the tone for the Jai Mala rite, where the couple joyously exchanges garlands. The bride then performs a ritualistic washing of the groom’s hands, feet, and face before he partakes in honey, curd, and ghee. The Yagna, symbolising sacred offerings, ensues, with the couple circumambulating the holy fire.
The pivotal moments include the Pratigya Mantra, Kanyadaan rite affirming vows, and Shilarohan, where the bride’s brother places her foot on a stone. Amidst the chanting of mantras, the couple completes four Parikramas around the fire. Following the Saptapadi, reminiscent of the Hindu 7 vows, This marriage radiates simplicity and spirituality, embracing timeless traditions in a condensed yet meaningful ceremony.
Arya Samaj Marriage Application Form Online
- The application form is available at the sub-registrar’s office where the marriage certificate online registration will be available.
- Both the bride and groom must fill in personal details like name, age, address, occupation, religion, etc.
- Accompany the form with two witnesses who attended the wedding ceremony.
- The form needs attestation by a gazetted officer or notary public.
How to check the Arya Samaj Certificate online?
To register, follow these step-by-step procedures:
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Step 1: Schedule an Appointment
Book an appointment with the sub-divisional magistrate’s office through the Arya Samaj official website or in person at least 15 days before the marriage date. This office will issue your marriage certificate.
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Step 2: Fill out the Registration Form
Obtain the registration form from the office or download it from their website. Complete the form with details of the bride and groom, including names, ages, addresses, religions, etc.
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Step 3: Submit Form and Required Documents
Submit the filled form along with necessary documents and proofs, such as date of birth, identity, address, and religion proofs, along with photographs. Pay the specified registration fee.
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Step 4: Bring Two Witnesses
On the appointment day, bring two witnesses who know the couple well, each with their identity proofs. They will sign the form as witnesses to the marriage.
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Step 5: Obtain Marriage Certificate
After verifying all details, the sub-divisional magistrate will issue the marriage certificate. This document serves as legal proof of your marriage according to Arya Samaj rules.
Conclusion
Arya Samaj marriage are straightforward and cost-effective, making them an attractive option for many couples. They can be performed for those practising Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, or Sikhism, ensuring a wide range of eligibility. The ceremony, rooted in Vedic customs, is simple yet meaningful, emphasising the purity and sanctity of the union. Whether registering under the Hindu Marriage Act or the Special Marriage Act, the process is clear and legally recognized.
For a smooth and hassle-free registration process, consider using Vakilsearch. Our expert legal services can guide you through every step, ensuring all legal requirements are met efficiently.
FAQs on Arya Samaj Marriage
How to get married with Arya Samaj?
To get married with Arya Samaj, follow these steps: contact your local Arya Samaj mandir, book an appointment, complete required documents, perform the rituals on the wedding day, and obtain the Arya Samaj marriage certificate.
Is Arya Samaj marriage legally valid?
Yes, Arya Samaj marriages are legally valid if conducted following the prescribed rituals and obtaining the marriage certificate.
How much does Arya Samaj marriage cost?
The cost of Arya Samaj marriage varies, covering expenses like the priest's fee, marriage certificate, and other optional services. It is generally more economical compared to elaborate traditional weddings.
What is the difference between Arya Samaj and registered marriage?
Arya Samaj marriage is a type of registered marriage, adhering to Vedic rituals. The difference lies in the cultural and religious aspects, as Arya Samaj weddings involve specific ceremonies along with legal registration.
What documents are required for Arya Samaj marriage?
Required documents include age and identity proofs, residence proof, passport-size photographs, and affidavits stating marital status and consent from both partners.
What if Arya Samaj marriage is not registered?
While the marriage ceremony is valid, legal recognition comes through registration. Non-registration may lead to issues with legal documentation and rights.
Is Arya Samaj certificate not proof enough of marriage?
While an certificate signifies the marriage, legal recognition requires registration. The certificate alone may not be sufficient for legal matters.
What are the advantages of Arya Samaj marriage?
Advantages include simplicity, cost-effectiveness, adherence to Vedic rituals, and a focus on spiritual aspects. weddings promote equality and do not involve elaborate rituals.
What if you don't register your marriage?
Not registering your marriage can lead to legal complexities, affecting rights related to inheritance, property, and other legal matters. Registration ensures legal recognition and simplifies administrative processes.
