Acara

Acara also encompasses a broader meaning of conventions of practice. It still carries the connotation of "right practice". Acara is a part that has been mentioned in Dharma sastras. This is a concept that has been used in regards to Classical Hindu law. The community norms are described and put into practice by people who have earned the respect within an individual group like a community leader or elder. Acara is important in Hindu law as it is considered to be one of the sources of dharma. Acara as customary law as regards to Hindu law is defined as similar to the community norm of a particular region. This law encompasses laws that are actually applied to daily life. Customary law represents the actual practice of law.

Acara is a narrow scope of customary law. These laws are put into practice by people who hold a power over a group and this power is ascertained by a theological connection to the divine by understanding Vedic Literature. The power to develop laws shifted eventually from Vedic scholars to community leaders. Their actions gained the respect of their fellow community members. Acara is referred as the third source of dharma. Acara`s power comes from its ability to connect with the Vedas. Dharmashastras have several references to Acara that reveal the real importance customs had as far as settling of legal disputes are concerned. Rules concerning legal procedure also emphasize the importance of custom.

Acara are transcendental laws. Acara`s meaning has changed from time to time. Earlier Acara was observed or declared by learned Brahmins who had high morals. Acara became the actual source of Hindu law in the present-day.