To understand the concept of guardianship, it is important to know with detailed explanations of the types of guardians classified under Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956.

Natural Guardian is normally the parents of the minors. Natural guardian is defined under Section 6 of Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956. The word "after" used in this section as meaning "in the absence of" and not necessarily, "after the life-time, of the father". Both the parents act as Natural Guardian for the welfare and also manages the estate of the minor child.

Testamentary Guardian is a right of Hindu father to appoint a testamentary guardian of his minor children. The testamentary guardian in the absence of any restrictions in the will, mortgage, sell or otherwise dispose of the immovable property of the minor even without the sanction of the court.

Defacto Guardian is guardian who manages the affair of the infant but Section 11 of Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956 has restricted a defacto guardian to deal with minor's property.

Guardian Appointed by Court as per Section 7 of the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890, the court ensuring the welfare of a minor, has the power to make orders with respect to the guardianship of its person, property, or both.