Women of this new era are educated and independent. They can decide for themselves whether or not they want to change their surname after marriage. Let us dive into the why and how aspects of a legal name change.
Many people think women must adopt their husband’s surname after marriage. Well, that is just a social convention. Women in India have the right to choose whether or not they want to take up their husbands’ names.
A woman can choose if she wants to continue with the surname she has been living with throughout her life, replace her existing surname with that of her husband’s or add her husband’s surname to her existing one. It is completely her choice, and no law in India demands a woman to change her surname after marriage.
And with a progressive India in the making, some men desire to carry forward their family with their wife’s surname, so they opt for a surname change post marriage. Again, this is a choice men can make for themselves, and no law can bar them from doing so.
As women are the ones who are majorly obligated to online name change their names post-marriage, let us dig deeper to know more.
Why Some Women Do Not Wish to Change Their Surname After Marriage?
- Most women feel changing even the surname would take away the identity they have been addressed by, or known by since their birth
- They have worked hard to build an identity for themselves over years, which would go unrecognisable on changing their surname.
- Their maiden surname has been reflected in all their achievements, school and college certificates, bank accounts, credit cards, and whatnot.
- It takes away the feeling of being an independent modern-day woman.
What Makes Women Change Their Surnames Post Marriage?
- Majorly to make the paperwork easy. With the same surname as the husband’s, it becomes easy to do the paperwork while applying for a passport, joint bank account, ration card, Aadhaar card etc.,
- The name change will help avoid any kind of confusion. It is expected that all the members of the family share the same surname. Also, some women feel the need to take up the new family’s surname to feel a sense of belongingness to the new world she stepped into.
- Also, when kids are involved, surname change makes everything easy for the kid. Different surnames for the parents might lead to an identity crisis for the children.
- You can leave behind a past, and restart afresh by changing your name.
The Procedure to Change Your Surname After Marriage
For a comprehensive name-change service, you can reach out to Vakilsearch, or change the name by yourself with the following 3 steps.
- The first step is to visit a nearby notary and get an affidavit stating the old name, the new name, and the reason for the change. You might have to even submit a copy of your marriage certificate: https://services.india.gov.in/service/detail/apply-for-marriage-registration-in-tamil-nadu-1. Then you will have to print your affidavit on ₹10 stamp paper. If you are abroad, you can approach the embassy to attest your affidavit.
- You will then have to publish an ad in any two newspapers, one local language and one English paper.
- The final step is to get your name published in the official gazette. For this visit the Controller of Publication of any Government Gazette. You will have to submit certain documents like your Identity cards, photographs, the original copies of the newspaper advertisements, etc.,
If the application was successful your legal name will be changed in the official gazette within 15-30 days.
The Takeaway
Doesn’t matter if you belong to a Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, or any other religion, the Indian law does not mandate a woman to change her surname after marriage. Though ceremonially if your name is changed post marriage, you will have to follow the above-mentioned procedure to legally change your name.
FAQ
Is it advisable to alter my surname following marriage for legal reasons?
The decision to change your surname after marriage for legal reasons depends on personal preference. It is advisable to change your name after marriage if you want your legal documents to reflect your new marital status.
What are the societal implications of retaining or changing my surname after getting married?
Societal implications vary, and opinions differ. Some view retaining one's surname as a symbol of independence, while others see changing it as a symbol of tradition or family unity. Changing your name is a personal choice at the end of the day.
How does changing my surname impact my personal and professional identity?
Changing your surname can impact both your personal and professional identity. Personally, it may symbolize a significant life transition. Professionally, it could require you to update your formal documents, business cards, emails, cheque books and business profiles.
Are there cultural considerations influencing the decision to change one's surname after marriage?
Yes, cultural considerations play a role. In some cultures, changing surnames is customary and symbolises family unity. In others, retaining one's surname is a reflection of individual identity and independence.
What legal steps are involved in changing my surname post-marriage, and how do they vary by jurisdiction?
Legal steps for changing your surname post-marriage involve obtaining a marriage certificate, updating identification documents and notifying relevant authorities. The process varies by jurisdiction, with some requiring a formal name change petition and others recognizing the change through marriage certificates.
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