Hindu Law
The word "Hindu" was used as an ETHNIC label and not a religious one
The Persians and the Greeks
referred to the ethnic group of people or Indians
13th Century
used to distinguish them from the Islamic kingdoms in India
19th century / British Rule
the word "Hinduism" was used to refer to a HINDU RELIGIOUS GROUPS that were distinct from Christianity or Islam
Today
Hinduism has developed as a term that embraces varied beliefs, practices and religious traditions among Hindus that have a common historical formation including a philosophical basis
Some have understood Hindu Law to include the ancient vedic texts until 1772 when the British adopted rules for administration of justice in Bengal
Some use Hindu law to distinguish it from the system that existed in the parts of India that were annexed by the Muslim Mughal Empire
Some to differentiate from the British Legal System from 1772 onwards
other categorize Hindu law as being applicable to only communities that were subjected to it
Hindu Law can be divided into three categories
Classical Hindu Law
Anglo-Hindu Law
Modern Hindu Law
refers to legal practices connected with the Vedic Traditions
Vedic Times - 1772
Family law or Personal law applicable to Hindus
evolved from Classical HL
1772-1947
adapted English Legal System and replaced the existing Indian laws except for personal law
Personal Law: marriage, inheritance, succession