This article has been written by Ms. Manya Purwar, a 4th year student of Lloyd Law College, Gr. Noida. 

 

ABSTARCT

The article, “Conversion and Divorce: Legal Perspectives in Hindu Marriages,” delves into the complex intersection of religious conversion and marital dissolution within the framework of Hindu law. Hindu marriages, considered sacred and governed by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, face evolving challenges as individuals navigate personal transformations, including religious conversion. The article explores key legal perspectives, examining landmark cases such as Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India, Lila Gupta v. Laxmi Narain, and Manisha Tyagi v. Deepak Kumar. It sheds light on the impact of conversion on grounds for divorce and highlights judicial interpretations, emphasizing the need for legal clarity. The article also addresses challenges faced by individuals, societal stigma, custody issues, and maintenance concerns. Recommendations for legislative amendments, protection of individual rights, and awareness initiatives are presented to address the complexities surrounding conversion and divorce in Hindu marriages. As Hindu society evolves, this article contributes to the ongoing dialogue seeking equilibrium between religious freedom and the preservation of the sanctity of marriage.

INTRODUCTION

Marriage, in the rich tapestry of Hindu traditions, is a sacred institution governed by a blend of religious sanctity, cultural rituals, and legal frameworks. The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 stands as a legislative cornerstone, delineating the norms that shape the unions within the Hindu community. However, as society evolves, individuals may undergo transformative experiences, and one such complex facet involves the intersection of religious conversion and divorce within the realm of Hindu marriages. The article endeavours to unravel the intricate legal dimensions surrounding this nexus, shedding light on landmark cases, judicial interpretations, and the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals navigating the realms of faith and marital dissolution. As we navigate through the sacred and the legal, this exploration seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the evolving dynamics of Hindu marriages in the modern landscape.

SANCITY OF THE MARITAL BOND

The sanctity of the marital bond in Hinduism is deeply ingrained in religious, cultural, and social traditions. Marriage is not merely a social contract; it is regarded as a sacred and spiritual union between two individuals. The significance of the marital bond is underscored by the Hindu belief in the concept of “samskara,” marking the various stages of life, with marriage being a crucial milestone.

• Spiritual Union: Hindu marriages are considered a divine covenant, reflecting the union of two souls. The marital bond is seen as a spiritual partnership where the couple supports each other on the journey of life, not just in this world but across multiple lifetimes.

• Dharma and Duty: Marriage is considered a sacred duty (dharma) in Hinduism, emphasizing the responsibilities and obligations that come with the marital bond. It is seen as a fundamental institution that contributes to the well-being of individuals and society at large.

• Fulfillment of Purushartha: Hindu philosophy recognizes four purusharthas or life goals: Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation). Marriage is seen as a means to fulfill dharma and attain the other purusharthas, contributing to a holistic and fulfilling life.

• Procreation and Family: Hinduism places a strong emphasis on the continuity of family lineage. Marriage is considered essential for procreation and ensuring the perpetuation of one’s family and traditions through the generations.

• Support System: The marital bond is viewed as a support system where partners share joys, sorrows, and responsibilities. It is believed that the union provides emotional, moral, and spiritual support, fostering personal growth and development.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE HINDU MARRIAGE ACT

Hindu marriage holds significant legal importance in India, primarily governed by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955.It provides a uniform code applicable to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, ensuring consistency and clarity in legal matters related to marriage. The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 plays a pivotal role in preserving and regulating the sanctity of these unions. Here are the key legal aspects that underscore the significance of Hindu marriages:

• Legal Framework: The Hindu Marriage Act serves as the legal foundation for Hindu marriages in India. It provides a structured framework that regulates the solemnization, registration, and dissolution of marriages, ensuring legal clarity and consistency.

• Conditions for Validity: The Act outlines specific conditions that must be met for a Hindu marriage to be legally valid. By establishing these criteria, it ensures that marriages are entered into with due consideration and compliance with legal norms.

• Monogamy and Equality: The Act upholds the principle of monogamy, ensuring that individuals can only have one spouse at a time. This promotes the idea of equality within the marital relationship, emphasizing the rights and responsibilities of both partners.

• Legal Remedies: In recognizing the sanctity of marriage, the Act provides legal remedies for individuals facing challenges within their marital bonds. Whether seeking restitution of conjugal rights or filing for divorce, the legal framework offers avenues for resolution. 

• Protection of Individual Rights: The Act includes provisions for the protection of individual rights within the marriage, addressing issues related to maintenance, custody of children, and inheritance, thus safeguarding the interests of spouses and their families.

• Social Recognition: Legal recognition under the Hindu Marriage Act bestows social and economic benefits upon married individuals. It facilitates the acknowledgment of the marital bond in various spheres, including insurance, inheritance, and eligibility for government welfare schemes.

The legal significance of Hindu marriages is profound, as it establishes a structured framework that governs the solemnization, registration, and dissolution of marriages within the Hindu community. The Hindu Marriage Act plays a pivotal role in shaping the legal landscape of Hindu marriages, ensuring adherence to legal norms, protection of individual rights, and the provision of legal remedies in case of marital disputes.

In essence, the sanctity of the marital bond in Hinduism is intertwined with the significance of the Hindu Marriage Act. While Hindu marriages are rooted in religious and cultural traditions, the legal framework ensures that these unions are recognized, regulated, and protected, upholding the sanctity of the institution within the evolving socio-legal landscape.

CONVERSION UNDER HINDU MARRIAGE

In the context of Hindu marriage, the term “conversion” typically refers to a change in religious affiliation or faith by one or both spouses involved in the marriage. Conversion can take various forms, including one spouse adopting the religion of the other, for example, a non-Hindu spouse may decide to convert to Hinduism, adopting its customs and traditions. In some cases, both spouses may decide to convert to a different religion together. This joint conversion is a mutual decision, and it signifies a shared commitment to a new religious identity. The couple may undergo ceremonies or rituals to mark their joint conversion. Conversion can also be a prerequisite for the solemnization of a Hindu marriage in cases where one spouse belongs to a different religion. Some families may require the non-Hindu partner to formally convert to Hinduism before the marriage ceremony, ensuring that the union adheres to Hindu customs and traditions. 

Conversion in Hindu marriages may also be influenced by social and cultural factors. Families may have specific expectations or preferences regarding the religious identity of the spouses, and conversion may be seen as a means of aligning with cultural norms or family traditions. In cases of interfaith marriages involving Hindus and individuals from other religious backgrounds, conversion can become a point of negotiation or contention. It may involve discussions about how religious practices and customs will be integrated into the marital life. Some couples choose to maintain the practices of both religions within the household even after conversion. This approach is aimed at preserving the cultural and religious heritage of both spouses, creating a harmonious environment that respects the diversity of faiths.

Conversion in Hindu marriages can have significant implications, as it may impact the religious dynamics within the marital relationship, the ceremonies and rituals performed during the marriage, and even the legal status of the marriage. In the legal context, the act of conversion may have implications for the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955. The law does not explicitly address the consequences of conversion on the validity of a Hindu marriage, which has led to legal challenges and varying interpretations by the courts. Conversion can sometimes lead to challenges within the marital relationship. The change in religious identity may affect the dynamics of the family, relationships with extended family members, and the upbringing of children. Additionally, conversion-related issues may become grounds for disputes or divorce.

CHALLENGES AND ISSUES OF CONVERSION IN MARRIAGE

The act of conversion within the context of Hindu marriage introduces a range of challenges and issues that individuals and couples may face. These challenges can span from personal and familial considerations to legal and societal aspects. Here are several key challenges and issues associated with conversion in Hindu marriages:

• Family and Social Dynamics

• Resistance from Family: The decision to convert may face resistance from extended family members who may hold traditional beliefs and expectations regarding the religious identity of family members.
• Social Stigma: Conversion can lead to social stigma, particularly in communities where adherence to cultural and religious norms is highly valued. Individuals may face judgment and criticism from their social circles.

• Marital Relationships

• Differences in Beliefs: Conversion may lead to differences in religious beliefs and practices between spouses, potentially causing tension within the marital relationship.
• Challenges in Integration: Integrating the religious practices of both spouses may be challenging, especially if the conversion is not mutually agreed upon or if there are significant differences in religious traditions.

• Personal Identity

• Loss of Personal Identity: Individuals may grapple with a sense of loss of personal identity or feel torn between the religious traditions of their upbringing and the newly adopted faith.
• Identity Crisis: Conversion can sometimes lead to an identity crisis, as individuals navigate the complexities of aligning their beliefs with a new religious identity.

• Ambiguities in the Law: The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 does not explicitly address the consequences of conversion on the validity of marriage, leading to legal ambiguities. This lack of clarity can result in challenges in legal proceedings related to divorce, maintenance, and inheritance.

• Conflicting Views on Upbringing: Couples may encounter challenges in deciding how to raise their children in terms of religious education, rituals, and practices. Differing views on religious upbringing can lead to disagreements.

• Impact on Extended Family

• Strained Relationships: Conversion can strain relationships with extended family members who may view the decision as a departure from family traditions or cultural norms.
• Interference in Marital Matters: Interference from extended family members in marital matters, particularly if they disapprove of the conversion, can contribute to additional stress.

• Societal Expectations

• Pressure to Conform: Societal expectations may pressure individuals to conform to religious and cultural norms, potentially influencing decisions related to conversion or adherence to specific traditions.
• Judgment and Discrimination: Individuals who convert may face judgment and discrimination in broader society, impacting their personal and professional lives.

• Emotional and Psychological Impact

• Stress and Anxiety: The process of conversion and the associated challenges can lead to stress and anxiety for individuals, affecting their mental well-being.
• Guilt or Regret: Some individuals may experience guilt or regret associated with the decision to convert, particularly if it results in strained relationships or personal conflicts.

1. 1. Lack of Legal Protections: The absence of specific legal provisions addressing the consequences of conversion within the Hindu Marriage Act can leave individuals without clear legal safeguards in case of disputes or dissolution of the marriage.

• Child Custody and Maintenance

• Disputes over Custody: In cases of divorce, disputes over child custody may arise, with each spouse having different views on the religious upbringing of the children.
• Maintenance Concerns: Maintenance and financial support may become contentious issues if the converted spouse faces challenges in personal and professional spheres due to the conversion.

Addressing these challenges requires open communication, mutual respect, and, in some cases, legal intervention. Couples undergoing conversion should consider seeking professional guidance, including legal counsel, to navigate the complexities associated with religious conversion within the context of Hindu marriage.

JUDICIAL INTERPRETATIONS ON CONVERSION IN MARRIAGE

The legal perspective on conversion in Hindu marriage is multifaceted and has been shaped by judicial interpretations in various cases. The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 governs Hindu marriages in India but does not explicitly address the consequences of conversion on the validity of marriage. As a result, legal challenges and complexities have emerged, leading to significant court decisions. Here are some notable case laws that offer insights into the legal perspective on conversion in Hindu marriages:

1) Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India (1995):

• Background: This landmark case dealt with a Hindu husband converting to Islam for the sole purpose of contracting a second marriage without divorcing his Hindu wife.
• Legal Perspective: The Supreme Court held that such a conversion, known as “sham conversion,” is not valid. The court emphasized the principles of justice, equity, and good conscience, asserting that the act was against the sanctity of marriage.
• Relevance: The case highlighted the legal consequences of conversion when undertaken with the intent to evade legal responsibilities within a Hindu marriage.

2) Lila Gupta v. Laxmi Narain (1978):

• Background: This case involved a husband who had converted to Islam and argued that his conversion invalidated the marriage under Hindu law.
• Legal Perspective: The court ruled that conversion did not automatically dissolve the marriage. The judgment emphasized the legislative vacuum in the Hindu Marriage Act regarding the consequences of conversion.
• Relevance: The case emphasized the need for legal reforms to address the complexities arising from conversion in Hindu marriages.

3) Manisha Tyagi v. Deepak Kumar (2010):

• Background: This case dealt with the conversion of a spouse to another religion and whether it amounted to cruelty, constituting a ground for divorce.
• Legal Perspective: The Delhi High Court held that conversion alone could not be considered cruelty unless accompanied by additional factors leading to mental or physical suffering.
• Relevance: The case underscored the importance of considering the specific circumstances surrounding conversion in determining its legal implications for divorce.

4) Nandakumar v. Bindu (2008):

• Background: In this case, the wife had converted to Hinduism for the purpose of marriage and later reconverted to Islam.
• Legal Perspective: The Kerala High Court highlighted the legislative vacuum and the need for intervention to address the consequences of conversion in interfaith marriages.
• Relevance: The case emphasized the challenges posed by the lack of specific legal provisions regarding conversion in Hindu marriages.

5) Neeraja Saraph v. Jayant Saraph (2014):

• Background: This case involved a Hindu wife who converted to Islam after marriage.
• Legal Perspective: The Bombay High Court emphasized the importance of recognizing the validity of marriages under personal laws, irrespective of conversion.
• Relevance: The case highlighted the legal recognition of marriages even after one of the spouses converts to another religion.

These cases collectively reflect the evolving legal perspectives on conversion in Hindu marriages. They emphasize the need for legislative reforms to address the legal vacuum, ensuring clarity and fairness in matters related to conversion and its impact on marital relationships governed by Hindu law. The judicial decisions provide insights into the nuanced approach taken by the courts in interpreting the legal implications of conversion within the Hindu marriage framework.

DIVORCE UNDER HINDU MARRIAGE

Divorce in marriage refers to the legal dissolution or termination of a marital union, ending the legal bonds and responsibilities that arise from the marriage contract. It is a formal legal process that declares a marriage null and void, recognizing the spouses as no longer being married to each other. Divorce has varying religious significance across different cultures and religious traditions. The perspectives on divorce are often shaped by religious teachings, scriptures, and cultural norms. In Hinduism, marriage is considered a sacred and lifelong union, and the concept of divorce has traditionally been viewed with reservation. The religious significance of divorce in Hindu marriages is influenced by Hindu scriptures, cultural norms, and the societal understanding of the sanctity of the marital bond. Here are key points regarding the religious significance of divorce in Hindu marriages:

• Sacredness of Marriage: Hinduism regards marriage as a sacrament and a sacred duty. The union of two individuals in marriage is considered a divine covenant, and the ideal is for the marriage to last a lifetime.

• Dharma and Commitment: Dharma, which encompasses duty, righteousness, and moral and social obligations, plays a crucial role in Hindu philosophy. Marriage is seen as a fulfilment of dharma, and the commitment to marital duties is highly valued.

• Importance of Family: Hinduism places significant importance on family and the continuity of lineage. A stable and harmonious family life is considered conducive to spiritual growth and societal well-being.

• Samskara and Life Stages: Marriage is considered one of the important samskaras (sacraments) in Hinduism, marking a crucial life stage. The dissolution of a marriage through divorce disrupts the traditional life script and is viewed with caution.

• Ashrama System: Hindu philosophy recognizes four ashramas (stages of life), one of which is Grihastha (householder). Marriage is an integral part of this stage, and divorce is seen as a deviation from the expected path.

• Karma and Consequences: Hinduism emphasizes the law of karma, where actions have consequences. Divorce is often seen as a consequence of past actions, and individuals are encouraged to fulfil their duties and responsibilities to the best of their ability.

• Social Stigma: Traditionally, divorce has carried a social stigma in Hindu communities. Individuals, especially women, may face judgment and societal disapproval if they choose to end their marriages.

• Varied Interpretations: Hindu philosophy and scriptures provide room for varied interpretations. While some may view divorce as a last resort with potential karmic implications, others may consider it a pragmatic solution in certain circumstances.

• Modern Perspectives: – In contemporary Hindu society, perspectives on divorce are evolving. With changing societal dynamics, there is a growing acceptance of divorce as a legitimate option in cases of irreconcilable differences or abuse.

While Hinduism traditionally upholds the sanctity of marriage and the importance of fulfilling one’s duties, the evolving social landscape has led to more nuanced views on divorce. Individual circumstances, adherence to dharma, and societal acceptance contribute to the complex interplay of religious and cultural factors surrounding divorce in Hindu marriages. Divorce in marriage is a significant legal and personal event that can have profound consequences for individuals and their families. It involves navigating legal processes, emotional challenges, and making decisions that will shape the post-divorce lives of the individuals involved. Legal systems aim to provide a fair and just resolution to marital disputes while protecting the rights and well-being of all parties.

GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE UNDER HINDU MARRIAGE

The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, which governs Hindu marriages in India, provides specific grounds on which a Hindu marriage can be legally dissolved through divorce. These grounds cover various aspects, including cruelty, adultery, desertion, conversion, mental disorders, and more. Here are the grounds for divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act:

1) Adultery (Section 13(1)(i)): Adultery refers to voluntary sexual intercourse by a spouse with someone other than their spouse. If one spouse engages in adultery, the other has grounds for divorce.

Case Law: In the case of V. Bhagat v. D. Bhagat (1994), the Supreme Court held that adultery, if proved, can be a ground for divorce. The court emphasized the importance of establishing the guilt of the spouse and the impact of adultery on the marital relationship.

2) Cruelty (Section 13(1)(ia)): Cruelty can be physical or mental, and it must be of such a nature that it makes it impossible for the spouses to live together. Persistent behaviour that causes physical or mental harm can be grounds for divorce.

Case Law: In Shobha Rani v. Madhukar Reddi (1988), the Supreme Court clarified that the term “cruelty” in divorce cases includes both physical and mental cruelty. The court also emphasized that the cruelty must be of such a nature that it makes it impossible for the spouse to live with the other.

3) Desertion (Section 13(1)(ib)): If one spouse abandons the other without reasonable cause and without the consent or against the wish of the abandoned spouse for a continuous period of at least two years, it can be grounds for divorce.

Case Law: In Smt. Kiran Balani v. Anil Balani (2002), the Delhi High Court held that the intention to bring cohabitation permanently to an end is an essential element of desertion, and the deserting spouse must have the animus deserendi.

4) Conversion to Another Religion (Section 13(1)(ii)): If a spouse converts to another religion after marriage, it is a ground for divorce. This provision recognizes the significance of religious continuity in Hindu marriages.

Case Law: In Lila Gupta v. Laxmi Narain (1978), the court held that conversion to another religion alone does not automatically dissolve the marriage, and the court must consider the overall circumstances.

5) Mental Disorder (Section 13(1)(iii)): If a spouse has been suffering from a mental disorder of such a kind or to such an extent that the other spouse cannot reasonably be expected to live with them, it can be grounds for divorce.

Case Law: In Durga Prasanna Tripathy v. Arundhati Tripathy (2005), the Orissa High Court held that the mental disorder must be of such a nature that the other spouse cannot reasonably be expected to live with the mentally disordered spouse.

6) Incurable Diseases (Section 13(1)(iv)): If a spouse has been suffering from a virulent and incurable form of leprosy, or from venereal disease in a communicable form, it can be grounds for divorce.

7) Presumption of Death (Section 13(1)(v)): If a spouse has not been heard of as being alive for a period of at least seven years, the other spouse can seek a divorce on the grounds of the presumption of death.

Case Law: In Shindayya Hiremath v. Smt. Parvatibai (1994), the Karnataka High Court held that the presumption of death arises only if the spouse has not been heard of as being alive for a period of at least seven years.

8) Not Heard of Being Alive (Section 13(1)(vi)): If a spouse has not been heard of as being alive for a period of at least seven years by those persons who would naturally have heard of them if they were alive, it can be grounds for divorce.

9) No Resumption of Cohabitation After Decree of Judicial Separation (Section 13(1)(vii)): If there is no resumption of cohabitation between the parties to the marriage for at least one year after the passing of a decree for judicial separation, either party may apply for divorce.

10) Mutual Consent (Section 13-B): Mutual consent divorce is not a ground per se, but it’s a provision where both spouses can jointly file for divorce if they have been living separately for at least one year and mutually agree to end the marriage.

Case Law: While mutual consent divorce is more of a procedural aspect, in Amardeep Singh v. Harveen Kaur (2017), the Supreme Court clarified that the six-month cooling-off period is not mandatory in cases where the parties have genuinely settled their differences.

IMPORTANCE OF AWARENESS 

The importance of awareness and sensitization among legal professionals, religious leaders, and the general public cannot be overstated, particularly in matters related to divorce and conversion within the context of Hindu marriages. Here’s a brief overview of why awareness and sensitization are crucial:

• Clarity in Legal Processes: Awareness ensures that legal professionals understand the nuances of divorce and conversion laws, enabling them to provide clear guidance to individuals seeking legal assistance.
• Fair and Just Practices: Sensitization promotes empathy, reducing biases, and ensuring that legal professionals approach cases without prejudice. This contributes to fair and just legal practices.
• Protection of Individual Rights: Knowledge about the complexities of divorce and conversion protects the rights of individuals by facilitating informed decision-making and preventing potential exploitation or misinformation.
• Interfaith Understanding: Awareness fosters an understanding of different religious perspectives, promoting tolerance and reducing potential conflicts arising from interfaith marriages or conversions.
• Guidance for the Faithful: Religious leaders, informed about legal implications, can provide more comprehensive guidance to their followers facing marital challenges or contemplating conversion, contributing to well-informed decision-making.
• Facilitation of Interfaith Dialogue: Sensitization enables religious leaders to engage in interfaith dialogue more effectively, fostering mutual respect and understanding within diverse religious communities.
• Reducing Stigma and Judgement: Awareness campaigns help dispel societal stigmas associated with divorce and conversion. This reduces judgment and encourages a more supportive and empathetic environment.
• Informed Decision-Making: Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their marriages and religious affiliations. It promotes autonomy and agency in personal choices.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity: Sensitization promotes an inclusive society that respects diverse beliefs and practices. It encourages acceptance and appreciation for the choices individuals make regarding marriage and religion.
• Overall Societal Harmony: Mitigates conflicts, enhances legal compliance, and builds trust in institutions for a harmonious and informed society.

Awareness and sensitization play a pivotal role in creating a harmonious and informed society. They empower individuals, promote understanding, and contribute to fair legal practices, ensuring that decisions related to divorce and conversion within Hindu marriages are made with awareness, empathy, and respect for individual rights and choices.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the legal perspectives on conversion and divorce within Hindu marriages reflect a delicate balance between individual rights and the preservation of the sanctity of this sacred institution. The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 provides a framework that acknowledges the complexities inherent in marital relationships, encompassing grounds for divorce and considerations related to religious conversion. The legal landscape surrounding divorce in Hindu marriages encompasses diverse grounds, including adultery, cruelty, desertion, conversion, mental disorders, and more. These legal provisions seek to address the intricacies of human relationships while upholding principles of justice and fairness. Through case laws, the judiciary has played a vital role in interpreting and applying these provisions, providing guidance on matters ranging from adultery to mental disorders.

Conversion, especially the voluntary shift to another religion after marriage, is recognized as grounds for divorce, highlighting the significance of religious continuity in Hindu unions. The legal framework, while acknowledging the individual’s right to choose their faith, ensures that such choices are not made lightly, considering the potential impact on the marital bond. Education and awareness are paramount in navigating the complexities of divorce and conversion within Hindu marriages. Training programs for legal professionals, community leaders, and the general public, along with educational initiatives in schools and workplaces, contribute to a more informed and empathetic society. These initiatives aim to dispel stigma, promote understanding, and empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their marriages and religious affiliations. A balanced approach that protects individual rights while respecting cultural and religious values is crucial. Legal reforms, mediation, and an emphasis on mutual consent provide avenues for amicable resolutions, while community support and awareness campaigns work towards reducing societal judgment and fostering empathy.

In essence, the legal perspectives on conversion and divorce in Hindu marriages are dynamic and evolving, reflecting the changing societal norms and individual aspirations. While upholding the sanctity of marriage, the legal framework strives to provide a compassionate and just resolution to the complexities that may arise, ensuring that individuals are empowered to make choices that align with their values and circumstances. Ultimately, the legal perspectives are not merely a set of rules but a reflection of a society that acknowledges the nuanced nature of human relationships and seeks to balance individual autonomy with collective values.

 

REFRENCES

This article was originally written by Indira Sharma, Balram Pandit, Abhishek Pathak, and Reet Sharmahttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705690/#:~:text=The%20goal%20of%20marriage%20in,united%20and%20prevents%20its%20breakdown.

This article was originally written by Jayaram V https://www.hinduwebsite.com/marriage.asp

https://lddashboard.legislative.gov.in/actsofparliamentfromtheyear/hindu-marriage-act-1955

https://indiankanoon.org/search/?formInput=hindu+marriage+conversion+of+religion

https://indiankanoon.org/search/?formInput=divorce+under+hindu+marriage+act