law: Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
  7. Ceremonies for a Hindu marriage.-
  (1) A Hindu marriage may be solemnized in accordance with the
  
  customary rites and ceremonies of either party thereto.
  (2) Where such rites and ceremonies include the Saptapadi (that
  
  is, the taking of seven steps by the bridegroom and the bride jointly before
  
  the sacred fire), the marriage becomes complete and binding when the seventh
  
  step is taken.