Sonakshi-Zaheer Tie Knot Under Special Marriage Act. Here's What It Is

In a much-vaunted ceremony, actors Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal tied the knot in Mumbai on Sunday. Their union, which was registered under the Special Marriage Act, made headlines as the couple’s photographs quickly went viral. The images feature Zaheer signing the wedding documents while Sonakshi stands with her father, veteran actor and politician Shatrughan Sinha.

What is the Special Marriage Act (SMA)?

The Special Marriage Act of 1954 is an Indian law that provides a special form of marriage for people of India and Indian nationals in foreign countries, regardless of their religion or faith. The Act was introduced to facilitate marriages that do not conform to the personal laws of different religions. It extends across India and applies to Indian citizens domiciled in territories where the Act is enforced.

Other Celebrity Couples Who Married Under SMA

Other Indian couples who tied the knot under Special Marriages Act (SMA) include

What Are the Provisions Under SMA?

• Secularism: SMA allows for a civil marriage independent of religious rituals or customs.
• Applicability: It applies to all Indian citizens, irrespective of religion, and also extends to everyone with Indian domicile.
• Marriage Registration: The marriage is performed by a Marriage Officer and registered officially.
• Minimum Age: The minimum age for marriage is 21 years for men and 18 years for women, with both parties giving free and full consent.
• Notice of Intended Marriage: Couples must give a 30-day notice to the Marriage Officer, during which objections can be raised.
• Objections and Inquiry: The Marriage Officer must inquire into any objections within 30 days. If valid, the marriage cannot proceed.
• Registration and Witnesses: If there is no objection, the marriage is solemnized in the presence of three witnesses, and a marriage certificate is issued to the couple.