Which of the following is a ceremony, without the performance of which, a Hindu marriage is considered null and void?

Answer: Option B

In Hindu law, the performance of Saptapadi (seven steps around the sacred fire) is considered an essential ritual for the validity of a Hindu marriage. According to Section 7(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, a marriage is considered complete and binding only when the Saptapadi is performed in the presence of the sacred fire.

If Saptapadi is not performed, the marriage is deemed null and void as per Hindu legal traditions. Other rituals like Kanyadaan and Sindoor-daan are customary but not legally mandatory for the validity of the marriage.

Thus, the absence of Saptapadi makes a Hindu marriage legally invalid.