Originally posted by: Viswasruti
A woman can choose if she wants to continue with the surname she has been living with throughout her life, replace her existing surname with that of her husband's or add her husband's surname to her existing one. It is completely her choice, and no law in India demands a woman to change her surname after marriage!
Is it mandatory to add the husband's name in Aadhaar?
Relationship details are not collected in Aadhaar. However, you have the option to add the name of your father/husband, etc. in the C/O field. This will be part of your address, and no documentary support is required for the same.
Is it mandatory to add spouse name in PAN Card?
It is not mandatory to update your name on the PAN card after marriage, but it is advisable to do so for consistency in official documents.
Nothing is/should be mandatory.
If a woman freely chooses to take her husband's surname for legal reasons or personal preference, then I don't see a issue in it as the choice is based on autonomy. However, if societal pressure forces her to change it against her will, it becomes male domination. While many see it as a cultural norm, traditions often favor men. Ultimately, it should be about personal choice without coercion, or because of culture or because woman are expected to change their name. In the end, it boils down to free-will and your decision.
Example, Sex with consent is sex, but the same thing without consent is Rape. It's about respecting choice and autonomy of every human being irrespective of gender.
That being said, in this case, if Jaya Bachchan didn't want to be addressed by her husband 's name (which is completely fine and good), then don't change your name in legal documents. You cannot change your name to husband's name in legal documents and then get angry if you are addressed by the same name, lol.