Does the wife's maintenance become obligatory after the marriage contract and before consummation and privacy with her, or is it on her guardian? And is it a condition for the obligation of maintenance that the consummation or intercourse be publicly declared, or is privacy sufficient? And what is the most preponderant opinion on the matter when jurists differ?

Maintenance is not obligatory simply upon the marriage contract or khalwa (private seclusion), but rather when the wife enables full enjoyment. The khalwa that establishes the mahr (dowry) is one where sexual intercourse is usually possible, and this is the view of the majority, contrary to the view of others who hold that the mahr is only established by intercourse itself. As for announcing the consummation (or entry), if what is meant is announcing the marriage, then it is recommended based on the hadith "Announce the marriage." If what is meant is announcing the private seclusion or sexual intercourse, then it is not legislated.