Marriage ceremonies are profound rites of passage that begin a lifelong journey of companionship, love, and commitment. Rooted in tradition and infused with symbolism, these ceremonies hold immense importance and significance in society. They symbolize love, unity, and the promise of a lifetime together. They are times of joy and solemnity in which families and communities gather to witness, celebrate, and bless the union of two separate individuals.

Saptapadi is an important component in the complicated fabric of Hindu marriage rites. Saptapadi translates to "seven steps," where the couple takes seven symbolic steps together, each step representing a vow and a commitment towards building a life filled with mutual respect, understanding, and love. These steps are not mere physical movements but a journey towards spiritual and emotional alignment, forging a bond that transcends the material realm.

In its April 19 order, the court observed that when a Hindu marriage is not performed per the necessary rituals or ceremonies such as'saptapadi' (taking seven steps by the groom and the bride jointly before the sacred fire), the marriage will not be deemed to be a Hindu marriage.

"We further observe that a Hindu marriage is a sacrament and has a sacred character. In the context of saptapadi in a Hindu marriage, according to the Rig Veda, after completing the seventh step (saptapadi), the bridegroom says to his bride, 'With seven steps, we have become friends (sakha). May I attain friendship with thee; may I not be separated from thy friendship'. A wife is considered to be half of herself (ardhangini), but to be accepted with an identity of her own and to be a co-equal partner in the marriage," it said.

Legal Recognition:
The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 is the governing legislation concerning Hindu marriages in India. While it primarily focuses on legal formalities and procedures, it recognizes the importance of traditional customs like Saptapadi. Section 7 of the Act outlines the essential ceremonies of a Hindu marriage, and Saptapadi is explicitly mentioned as one of them.

"Unless the parties have undergone such ceremony, there would be no Hindu marriage according to Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and a mere issuance of a certificate by an entity in the absence of the requisite ceremonies having been performed would neither confirm any marital status to the parties nor establish a marriage under Hindu law," a bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih stated recently.

Validity of Saptapadi:
Under Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, Saptapadi is considered a fundamental ritual for solemnizing a Hindu marriage. Its presence in the marriage ceremony is crucial for legal validation. Any deviation from performing Saptapadi as per customary rites raises questions about the marriage's validity under the law.

Rooted in ancient traditions and upheld through generations, Saptapadi is not merely a ritualistic walk around the sacred fire; it encapsulates profound philosophical and spiritual meanings, serving as the cornerstone of a Hindu marriage.

Rediscovering the Essence of Saptapadi:
While the core principles underlying Saptapadi remain timeless, contemporary weddings sometimes deviate from traditional rituals for various reasons. However, understanding the profound symbolism of Saptapadi can reignite its relevance in modern marriages.

• Cultural Heritage: Saptapadi serves as a link to our rich cultural heritage, preserving age-old traditions that connect us to our ancestors. By embracing these rituals, couples pay homage to the wisdom of the past while celebrating the continuity of tradition.
   
• Spiritual Significance: Beyond its cultural importance, Saptapadi holds deep spiritual significance. It reminds couples of the sacred nature of marriage, encouraging them to approach their union with reverence and mindfulness.
   
• Symbol of Commitment: In a world where relationships are often fleeting, Saptapadi stands as a symbol of enduring commitment. By solemnizing their vows through the seven steps, couples reaffirm their dedication to each other, laying the foundation for a lifelong partnership.
   
• Path to Fulfillment: Each step of Saptapadi offers valuable insights into the ingredients of a fulfilling relationship—communication, support, shared goals, and spiritual alignment. By internalizing these principles, couples can navigate the complexities of married life with grace and resilience.

Conclusion:
Marriage ceremonies strengthen familial bonds and community ties, reaffirming the importance of shared values and collective support. They provide an opportunity for families to come together in celebration and solidarity, laying the foundation for enduring relationships.

These ceremonies mark significant milestones and transitions in life. They signify the transition from individuality to partnership, from one stage of life to another. Through these ceremonies, individuals embark on a new chapter filled with love, companionship, and shared dreams.

Ultimately, marriage ceremonies are celebrations of love and commitment. They remind us of the profound bond two individuals share and their journey together. Amidst the rituals and festivities, love shines bright as the guiding force that binds hearts and souls in a sacred union. Whether through elaborate customs or simple rituals, these ceremonies celebrate the beauty of human relationships and the promise of a shared future, and at the heart of it all lies the sacred ritual of Saptapadi, weaving together the vows of a lifetime with threads of love and devotion. Written By: Nandini Bahl (Amity Law School, Noida)