When a Hindu and a Muslim marry, the terminology depends on whether the context is legal, social, or religious. In India, there isn’t a single “ceremonial” name like Nikah or Pheras that covers both; instead, it is defined by the law under which it is registered.
Here is what it is called in different contexts:
1. The Legal Name: “Civil Marriage”
Legally, a marriage between a Hindu and a Muslim is most commonly called a Civil Marriage or a Special Marriage.
- Act: It is solemnized under the Special Marriage Act (SMA), 1954.
- Definition: This is a secular law that allows people from two different religions to marry without either person having to convert to the other’s faith.
- The Certificate: The official document issued is called a Certificate of Marriage from the Registrar of Marriages.
2. The Social Name: “Inter-Faith Marriage”
In social and academic circles, this union is referred to as an Inter-Faith Marriage or Inter-Religious Marriage.
- Mixed Marriage: Sometimes called a “mixed marriage,” though this term is becoming less common.
- Secular Wedding: Because it often skips religious rituals to remain neutral, it is frequently described as a secular wedding.
3. The Religious Names (Context-Dependent)
If the couple decides to follow religious personal laws instead of the Special Marriage Act, one partner usually converts. In that case, the marriage takes the name of that specific religion’s ceremony:
- Nikah: If the Hindu partner converts to Islam, the marriage is called a Nikah. Under Islamic law, a marriage between a Muslim and a non-Muslim (who is not “People of the Book”) is generally not recognized unless conversion happens.
- Vivaha / Pheras: If the Muslim partner converts to Hinduism, the marriage is conducted through Hindu rites, often called Vivaha or Lagna.
4. Key Differences in “Naming” the Union
| Context | Term Used | Requirements |
| Law (Court) | Special Marriage | 30-day notice, no conversion needed. |
| Islam (Religious) | Nikah | Usually requires both to be Muslim. |
| Hinduism (Religious) | Vivaha | Usually requires both to be Hindu. |
| Societal | Inter-faith Union | Recognition of two different backgrounds. |
Important Note: Under the Special Marriage Act, the marriage is considered a “Civil Contract” rather than a “Sacrament” (Hindu view) or a purely “Religious Contract” (Muslim view).
Are you asking because you are looking for the specific wording to use in a legal application, or for a wedding invitation?