How to change your name legally in India?

Here are the steps on how to change your name legally in India:

1. Determine the reason for the name change. There are many reasons why you might want to change your name, such as marriage, religious conversion, or a change in gender identity. The reason for your name change will affect the documents you need to provide.
2. Draft an affidavit. An affidavit is a legal document that states your intention to change your name. It should include your old name, your new name, the reason for the name change, and your signature. The affidavit must be notarized by a lawyer or a notary public.
3. Publish a notification in the Gazette of India. The Gazette of India is a government publication that lists all of the important legal notices in India. Publishing a notification in the Gazette is a way to inform the public of your name change.
4. Apply for a name change deed. A name change deed is a formal document that records your name change. You can apply for a name change deed at the local court or at the office of the Registrar of Assurances.
5. Submit the name change deed to the relevant authorities. Once you have a name change deed, you need to submit it to the relevant authorities, such as the passport office, the driving license office, and the bank.

Here are the documents you need to change your name legally in India:

• Affidavit
• Newspaper advertisement
• Gazette notification
• Name change deed
• Proof of identity (such as a passport, driver's license, or Aadhaar card)
• Proof of residence (such as a utility bill or a bank statement)

The cost of changing your name legally in India varies depending on the state you live in. However, it typically costs between ₹500 and ₹1,000.