Hindu Law
Topic 76 Types Stridhan
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HINDU LAW — COMPREHENSIVE NOTES
Topic 76
Types of Stridhan
Stridhan & Women’s Property Rights
Relevant Sections: Hindu Law Texts
Priority: MEDIUM | Exam Relevance: DJS/PCS-J
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Types of Stridhan
1. Classification by Source
Different Smritikars classified Stridhan into various categories. The most comprehensive classification is:
A. According to Manu (6 Types)
- Adhyagni — Property given before the nuptial fire at the time of marriage
- Adhyavahanika — Property given during the bridal procession
- Pritidatta — Property given as a token of love (by husband)
- Property given by father
- Property given by mother
- Property given by brother
B. According to Yajnavalkya (Expanded)
Yajnavalkya added two more categories to Manu’s list:
- Sulka — Bride-price or nuptial fee
- Gifts received after marriage (Anvadheyaka)
C. According to Katyayana (Most Comprehensive)
Katyayana provided the most extensive classification, adding:
- Saudayika — Gifts given out of love and affection (absolute power of disposal)
- Property acquired by self-exertion, mechanical arts, or learning
- Property received as compromise or in lieu of maintenance
- Property obtained by adverse possession
2. Classification by Disposal Power
Category | Saudayika Stridhan | Non-Saudayika Stridhan |
Meaning | Gifts of love and affection | All other Stridhan |
Power During Marriage | Absolute — no consent needed | Restricted — husband’s consent needed (old law) |
Power During Widowhood | Absolute | Absolute |
Power During Maidenhood | Father’s control | Father’s control |
Post-HSA 1956 | Absolute (S.14) | Absolute (S.14) — distinction abolished |
3. Classification Under Modern Law (Post-HSA)
After Section 14 of the HSA, 1956, the elaborate Smriti classifications have lost practical significance. Under modern law, ALL property possessed by a Hindu female is her absolute property, regardless of source. However, the traditional classifications remain relevant for: (a) academic/exam purposes; (b) understanding the Explanation to S.14(1) which lists modes of acquisition; and (c) the law of devolution under S.15-16 HSA where the source of property determines the line of succession.
4. Devolution of Stridhan on Death (S.15-16 HSA)
Section 15 provides the general order of succession for a female Hindu dying intestate. Section 16 provides special rules based on the SOURCE of property:
- Property inherited from parents: Devolves upon the heirs of the father (S.15(2)(a)).
- Property inherited from husband/father-in-law: Devolves upon the heirs of the husband (S.15(2)(b)).
- Other property: Devolves in the general order under S.15(1): sons/daughters → husband’s heirs → parents’ heirs.
5. Mitakshara vs. Dayabhaga on Stridhan
Aspect | Mitakshara School | Dayabhaga School |
Scope | Narrower — fewer categories | Broader — more categories |
Saudayika Emphasis | Recognized as primary | All Stridhan treated similarly |
Succession | Detailed rules by category | Simpler inheritance rules |
Post-HSA | Distinctions abolished by S.14 | Distinctions abolished by S.14 |
6. Exam Tips
Manu’s 6 Types: ‘A-A-P-F-M-B’ A = Adhyagni (before fire) | A = Adhyavahanika (during procession) | P = Pritidatta (love gift from husband) | F = From Father | M = From Mother | B = From Brother. Yajnavalkya added Sulka + Anvadheyaka. |
EXAM TIP: The distinction between Saudayika and Non-Saudayika is the most tested point. Saudayika = gifts of love = absolute disposal power. Non-Saudayika = restricted during marriage (old law). Post-HSA 1956 = ALL absolute. Know this evolution. |
— End of Topic 76 —
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