How I Published my name change in Gazette
How I Published my Name change in Maharashtra GazetteHi I am Seema. I tell you my experience of how I changed my name.
I got married to Anil Gupta so I wanted to change it from Seema Gupta to Seema Dhavan
As usual I approached the Gazette Office at charni Road Mumbai. No queues. Nothing. Once a lively place was now full of silence.
The watchmen at the door greeted me with, "Madam, idhar nahi hota, Online try kijiye". OK but I insisted that I wanted to meet someone inside. But he was adamant. I had to oblige.
My journey started on the net searching for the government site. Yes I found it but was not satisfied. I made a few calls and was even transferred to the IVR systems. Still not satisfied, got fed up with the systems and started searching for name change consultants .
Fortunately I found change of name ads in Mumbai. I called them up. They just asked me a few questions. I answered They asked me to fill in the online form from Gazette name change which I obediently did.
wow ! popped up 2 forms one sample and a Blank Application form. I just had to fill in the blank application form by copying from the sample application form. That's it !
Madam, Our staff will be there at 6 in the evening to collect the application form. Documents ready rakhiye reminded me the staff on the Phone
Sure I will, I said.
The Staff Amit Landed at 6.15 pm at my place. greeted me with a smile. Stared at the Documents and then said, " Sab ok hai ma'm" yaha sign kar dijiye" Gazette Nov ki 2nd ko ready Hoga.
OK I said. so far so good.
5 days later I got the above copy of application ID
Today is Nov 2nd. I have just received my name change in Gazette copy from them.
Madam Ek Surprise hai? Said Amit on the Phone. Ek Name change ad bhi Free milega Iske saath (One name change ad Free with this) He said
Oh really why?
All Residents of Mumbai Applying for name change in gazette get a Complimentary change of name ads in 2 newspapers.
Ads are coming on 4th Nov and 4 copies shall be dispatched free to me
I just checked their mumbai page the charges show 375/-.
My goodness !!! What more could I ask for? I am satisfied now. Thats the Gazette copy
Changing one’s name is a personal decision that can reflect a variety of life events, from marriage and divorce to personal preference or cultural reasons.
However, beyond the decision itself lies the legal process, which can often seem daunting to those unfamiliar with it.
In Maharashtra, as in many other places, the name change process culminates in the publication of the new name in the official gazette.
This article will explore the various aspects of the gazette name change process, including gazette booking, the role of the Maharashtra Gazette, the transition to online gazette booking, and the steps involved in completing a gazette booking application.
The Role of the Gazette in Name Changes The gazette serves as the official public journal that records and announces changes in civil status, including name changes.
When an individual decides to change their name, it's not just a matter of personal choice; the change must be recognized by the state to have legal effect.
Publishing the change of name in the gazette makes it official and public.
Gazette Booking for Name Change Gazette booking is the process by which an individual reserves space in the gazette to have their name change officially published.
This is often the final step in the legal process of changing one's name.
In Maharashtra, the process is managed by the Maharashtra Gazette Office, which oversees the publication of all official notices for the region.
The Maharashtra Gazette is the official publication for legal notices in the state of Maharashtra, including those for name changes.
It’s a crucial resource for ensuring that all legal name changes are recorded and accessible for verification.
Online Gazette Booking With the advent of the digital age, many states in India, including Maharashtra, have simplified the process by introducing online gazette booking.
This e-gazette initiative has made it easier and more convenient for individuals to apply for a name change, as it eliminates the need to physically visit the gazette office.
Online Gazette Booking Steps The process typically involves the following steps: Accessing the DGPS Office Website: DGPS (Department of Publication and Stationery) is the government body responsible for the publication of the gazette.
By accessing their website, applicants can find the necessary forms and instructions for the name change process.
Filling Out the Gazette Booking Pdf Form: Applicants must download and fill out the form, which requires detailed personal information, the reason for the name change, and the desired new name.
Submitting the Application: Once the form is filled out, applicants must submit it along with the required documentation, which may include proof of identity, address, and an affidavit stating the reason for the name change.
Payment of Fees: There is usually a fee associated with gazette publication.
This can be paid online as part of the online gazette booking process.
Receiving Confirmation: After the application and payment are submitted, applicants receive a confirmation and can track the status of their gazette booking online.
Gazette Booking Application: Necessary Details The gazette booking application must be filled out with utmost accuracy.
It requires the applicant’s current name, proposed new name, father’s/husband’s name, address, and the reason for the name change.
Additionally, applicants need to sign a declaration stating that the information provided is correct to the best of their knowledge.
Publication and Verification After the gazette booking application is processed and the name change is published in the gazette, the individual can use the gazette notification as legal proof of the name change.
This document is essential for updating other legal documents such as passports, driver’s licenses, and bank accounts.
The Importance of the Gazette Notification A gazette notification is not just a formality; it serves as a permanent public record of one's name change.
This is crucial for background checks, credit reports, and any legal situation where a person’s identity must be verified.
Conclusion In Maharashtra, the process of changing one’s name and the subsequent gazette booking can now be completed with relative ease thanks to online services.
The shift to digital has streamlined the process, making it more accessible and efficient.
It’s important for individuals seeking to change their names to understand this process, comply with all requirements, and recognize the significance of the gazette publication in making their new name legally recognized.
The gazette name change process, while seemingly bureaucratic, is a vital step in ensuring that one’s new identity is officially acknowledged.
It underscores the importance of the rule of law in personal status changes and provides a clear, verifiable record for future reference.
Whether you are changing your name due to marriage, divorce, personal choice, or any other reason, following the proper procedures will ensure that your new identity is recognized in all aspects of life.

