Marriage Laws in Indian Society

Present work is concerned with most vital aspect of human relationship i.e. marriage. Now a days institution of marriage is challenged through out the world. It is undoubtedly most delicate and difficult of all personal relationship. Through different personal laws have their own colours and shades relating to the institution of marriage but the basic problem faced by them is as to how to regulate male- female relationship in any society. Stability in marital relationship largely strengthens the concept of family and a progressive society in general. In modern time the socio-economic and legal aspect have dominated the traditional religious concept of marriage. The present work traces the various stages in the gradual transformation of the institution of marriage starting from Vedic period to the present era, through Upnishada, Sutra, Epic’s, Commentaries and Digest, Sultanate, Mughal, Maratha and British Periods down to independence of country and thereafter. Though ceremonies like saptapadi, nikah, ashirvad are still affects the legality of the marital relationship but the sacramental aspect comes to an end with it, the other dominating factors relating to status and property have come prime considerations while established the marital relationship. This leads to growing discontent and break down of relationship. In spite of several Laws regulating the matrimonial relationship. Parentage maintenance etc., present society is under the strong clutches of the tentacles of dowry and divorce. Undoubtedly a stable marriage is highly desirable for the healthy growth of any society. Mere passing of laws cannot bring harmony in a family. However it has strong role in formation of strong public opinion to save the institution of marriage from the onslaught of evil of dowry and divorce.