To change your name in India, follow these three main steps: * Affidavit: Get an affidavit prepared by a Notary Public or Judicial Magistrate, stating your old name, new name, and reason for the change. This needs to be on a ₹50 stamp paper and attested. * Newspaper Advertisement: Publish an advertisement in two local newspapers (one English, one regional language) announcing your name change. Keep the original copies. * Gazette Notification: Apply to the Office of the Controller of Publications in Delhi. This is the official and legal recognition of your name change. Documents for Gazette Notification include your original affidavit, newspaper clippings, ID proofs (at least two, like Aadhaar/PAN), address proof, passport-sized photos, and the application form with the required fee. Once your name is published in the Gazette, you can update all your other official documents.
