Hindu law refers to the legal traditions and principles that are derived from ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, and Smritis. Over the centuries, various schools of Hindu law have developed, each with their own interpretations and commentaries on these texts.
Some of the Major Schools of Hindu Law
- Manu Smriti School: The Manu Smriti is an ancient Hindu text that outlines social and religious norms for individuals and communities. The Manu Smriti School of Hindu law relies heavily on this text and considers it the most authoritative source of law.
- Mitakshara School: The Mitakshara School is named after its most important commentary, the Mitakshara. This school of law emphasizes the importance of family and inheritance, and has had a significant impact on property law in India.
- Dayabhaga School: The Dayabhaga School is based on the Dayabhaga commentary, which focuses on the concept of property rights and inheritance. This school of law places more emphasis on individual property rights than on family property rights.
- Vyavahara School: The Vyavahara School is focused on legal procedures and processes, such as contract law, evidence, and judicial precedents. This school of law is more practical in nature and focuses on the practical application of legal principles.
- Dharmaśāstra School: The Dharmaśāstra School is based on the ancient Hindu texts known as the Dharmaśāstras, which outline social and religious duties and obligations. This school of law emphasizes the importance of morality and ethics in legal decision-making.
