Wills for Christians and Parsis in India

For Christians and Parsis in India, Wills and intestate succession are governed by the Indian Succession Act, 1925. The headline: you have wide freedom of testation — you can leave your property to whomever you wish.

Freedom of testation

Unlike Muslim law's one-third limit, a Christian or Parsi testator can bequeath their entire estate as they choose, subject to valid execution. This makes a clear, well-drafted Will especially powerful.

If there's no Will (intestacy)

The Act sets out how the estate is divided among the spouse and lineal descendants (with distinct rules for Parsis). These defaults may not match your wishes — which is exactly why a Will matters.

Executing your Will

• Two witnesses, neither a beneficiary.
• Registration optional; no stamp duty.
• Name an executor and a guardian for minor children.

This article is general information, not legal advice. For complex estates or specific cases, consult a qualified professional.