In this conversion two things are noteworthy, first that law does not provide any formal religious or

(otherwise) ceremonies for conversion to Hindu faith. All that is necessary is that there should be a
clear, formal and unequivocal renunciation of the existing religious faith and a declaration of
acceptance of Hindu faith. It is often presumed/ recommended that a person desirous of conversion
to Hindu faith should undergo a 'shuddhi ceremony or other induction ceremonies performed by
some sects like Arya Samaj." Observing and performance of these ceremonies are additional
pointers that a person has taken steps authenticating his conversion to Hindu faith, but the absence
of observance of any formal religious rites or ceremonies would not adversely affect a genuine
conversion brought about by an express renunciation of the former religion and a declaratory
acceptance/embracing of Hindu religion. The second important aspect is that the convert to Hindu
faith should have adopted Hindu way of life which makes an inquiry into post formal conversion
conduct necessary." What is 'Hindu way of life' is not laid down anywhere, but would include
observing or celebrating Hindu festivals/religious days and may (though neither necessarily nor
desirable) include in case of women dressing like Hindu women. At the same time it must be
remembered that, in the cosmopolitan and global culture of today there is considerable freedom to
don any

attire and the choice of garments or dress is influenced by personal or professional convenience
rather than religion, in case of a woman as well. Continued observance or allegiance to formal
religious faith would negate the requirement of adoption of Hindu way of life and would prove fatal
to the validity of conversion. Post conversion it is mandatory that a convert must adopt Hindu way of
life. In Perumal Nadar v Ponnuswami Nadar," the Apex court held as follows

A person may be a Hindu by birth or by conversion. A mere theoretical allegiance to the Hindu faith
by a person born in another faith does not convert him into a Hindu, nor is a bare declaration that he
is a Hindu sufficient to convert him. But a bonafide intention to be converted to the Hindu faith,
accompanied by conduct unequivocally expressing that intention may be sufficient evidence of
conversion. No formal ceremony of purification or expiation is necessary to effectuate conversion.