As a wedding planner, I always remind couples that while planning the decor, food, and celebrations is exciting, completing the legal formalities is just as important. A wedding is not only a beautiful celebration but also a legal union that must be registered under Indian law. If you are planning your wedding in Pune, here is everything you need to know about the legal requirements.
Understanding Marriage Laws in India
In India, marriages can be registered under two main acts:
- The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 – for couples who are Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, or Sikhs.
- The Special Marriage Act, 1954 – for inter-caste or inter-religious marriages, or for couples who prefer a civil marriage.
Both acts are valid all over India, including Pune. The difference lies mainly in the procedure and documentation.
Legal Requirements under the Hindu Marriage Act
If both the bride and groom are Hindus (or belong to the religions listed under this act), the marriage is performed as per traditional rituals and then registered.
Basic Requirements:
- Both partners must be of legal age – the groom should be at least 21 years old and the bride 18 years old.
- Both should be unmarried at the time of marriage (or legally divorced/widowed).
- The marriage should be performed with proper ceremonies and witnesses.
Documents Needed:
- Birth certificate or school leaving certificate (for age proof)
- Aadhaar card or passport (for identity proof)
- Address proof of both partners
- Passport-size photographs
- Wedding invitation card and photographs of the ceremony
- Affidavit confirming the marriage details
- Witnesses with valid ID proofs (usually two)
Once the ceremony is done, you can apply for marriage registration at the local Registrar’s Office in Pune, usually within 30 days of the wedding.
Legal Requirements under the Special Marriage Act
If the couple belongs to different religions or wants a court marriage, the Special Marriage Act applies.
Procedure:
- Both partners must give a 30-day notice to the Marriage Registrar in Pune.
- The notice is displayed publicly in the registrar’s office.
- After 30 days, if there are no objections, the marriage can be solemnized in front of the registrar and three witnesses.
Documents Required:
- Age and identity proofs of both partners
- Proof of residence in Pune for at least 30 days before giving notice
- Passport-size photos of both
- Affidavits confirming marital status and nationality
- Witnesses with ID proofs
This process is completely legal and recognized all over India, without any religious ceremony.
For NRI or Foreign Nationals
If one or both partners are NRIs or foreign citizens, some extra documents may be needed:
- Valid passport and visa
- Proof of stay in India
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the respective embassy or consulate
It’s best to consult the local marriage registrar or a legal advisor in Pune to confirm the exact requirements.
Where to Register in Pune
You can register your marriage at your local Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) or Marriage Registrar’s Office in Pune. Many offices now offer online appointment booking through the Maharashtra Government’s official website, which makes the process faster and easier.
Final Thought
Getting legally married in Pune is a simple process when you have the right documents and follow the correct steps. Whether you plan a traditional Hindu ceremony or a civil marriage under the Special Marriage Act, completing the legal registration ensures your marriage is officially recognized. As a wedding planner, I always advise couples to handle the paperwork early so they can enjoy their big day stress-free and focus on celebrating their love.
