According to the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, where Saptapadi forms part of the rites, a marriage becomes complete and binding when the:

Under Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, where the 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.

Meaning of Saptapadi:

• "Saptapadi" means "seven steps" in Sanskrit.
• The couple takes seven steps together around or before the sacred fire (Agni), making seven vows to each other.
• The vows include promises of support, prosperity, love, family welfare and lifelong companionship.

Customary rites:

• Section 7 recognises that a Hindu marriage may be solemnised in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either party.
• If the customary rites include Saptapadi, the marriage is complete on the seventh step.
• Other communities may follow different customary ceremonies, which are also valid.

Conditions for a valid Hindu marriage (Section 5):

• Neither party should have a living spouse at the time of marriage.
• Neither party should be incapable of giving valid consent because of unsoundness of mind.
• Both parties must have reached the minimum ages laid down in the Act.
• The parties should not be within prohibited degrees of relationship, unless custom allows it.

Registration:

Section 8 allows for the registration of Hindu marriages, but failure to register does not make the marriage invalid.

The Supreme Court, in the Seema v. Ashwani Kumar case (2006), directed states to make registration of marriages compulsory.

Important judgment:

In 2024, the Supreme Court said that a Hindu marriage is a sacrament and requires the performance of proper ceremonies, such as Saptapadi where applicable; mere registration without ceremonies does not make a valid Hindu marriage.

Application of the Act:

The Hindu Marriage Act applies to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs.

Divorce:

The Act also provides for divorce, judicial separation and restitution of conjugal rights.

Why not the other options?

• ✗The father's consent, registration and tying the mangalsutra do not, by themselves, complete the marriage under Section 7.