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Hindu Intestate Succession

A node-based study map for the order in which property devolves when a Hindu dies without leaving a valid will.

Start here

Propositus / PropositaThe Hindu who dies intestate
Male HinduSection 8 route
Class I heirsIf any exist, stop here
  1. Widow / widows
  2. Mother
  3. Son
  4. Daughter
  5. Children of a predeceased son or daughter
  6. Widow of a predeceased son
  7. Specified further descendants in the Schedule
Class II heirsOnly if no Class I heir
  1. Father
  2. Siblings and lineal descendants listed in entries I-IV
  3. Grandparents and uncles / aunts listed in later entries
  4. Nearest entry excludes lower entries
AgnatesRelated wholly through males
CognatesRelated, but not wholly through males
GovernmentEscheat, if no heir is found
Female HinduSection 15 route
General orderApply in sequence
  1. Sons, daughters, children of predeceased children, and husband
  2. Heirs of the husband
  3. Father and mother
  4. Heirs of the father
  5. Heirs of the mother
Source-based exceptions
  • Property inherited from father or mother can return to the father's heirs if she leaves no child or child of a predeceased child.
  • Property inherited from husband or father-in-law can return to the husband's heirs if she leaves no child or child of a predeceased child.

How to Read This

Move from the root node downward. A higher statutory class or entry normally excludes the lower one. This page is a study aid for the order of devolution, not a share calculator.

Source basis: Hindu Succession Act, 1956, especially sections 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 29, and the Schedule. Verify the current text before using it for advice or filing.