Can men take wife's family name as surname after marriage?

Traditionally, women take the man’s surname after marriage, as men were seen as the providers and heads of the family. But today, women are equally educated, financially independent, and often the breadwinners, while some men are choosing to be house husbands and primary caregivers. If roles are evolving, shouldn’t choices evolve too? Why shouldn’t a man take his wife’s surname if it reflects their reality? Is this a fair personal choice… or something society still finds hard to accept?

The live Chennai verdict

Nowadays, many men in Chennai are thinking about changing their family name after marriage. Some feel it is a good way to show love to their wife. Others think it is their own choice to do what they feel is right.

As per today's poll results, 71% of participants are saying “His Choice”. The poll is still live and the complete split unlocks after you vote. This is one of the questions trending on Pulse of Chennai right now.

Explore more in Chennai Marriage & Tamil Family Expectations.

Published 14 April 2026. Results represent Pulse of Chennai participants and are not a scientific population survey.