Himachal Pradesh: Woman Marries Two Brothers Under ‘Draupadi Pratha’

0
Himachal Pradesh: Woman marries two brothers under ‘Draupadi Pratha’

Image Source: Times Now

Two brothers from Himachal Pradesh‘s Sirmaur district have married the same woman, reviving the ancient Hatti tradition of polyandry. Pradeep Negi, a government employee, and Kapil Negi, who works abroad, tied the knot with Sunita Chauhan from nearby Kunhat village.

The Tradition

The Hatti community in Sirmaur district has historically practiced polyandry, where a woman marries multiple men, typically brothers. This tradition, known as “Ujla Paksh,” aims to prevent division of ancestral land and ensure familial unity. It’s believed to provide security to the woman, who remains protected even if one of the brothers passes away.

The Wedding

The three-day wedding celebration, which began on July 12, featured traditional folk songs and dances. Moreover, the local community marked the ceremony with enthusiasm and support, further highlighting the cultural significance of this tradition. Subsequently, videos of the event went viral on social media, ultimately sparking a national conversation about cultural diversity and indigenous traditions.

The Couple’s Perspective

Sunita, the bride, stated that she made her decision freely and without pressure, respecting the bond she shares with both brothers. Pradeep and Kapil emphasised their pride in their tradition, saying, “We followed the tradition publicly as we are proud of it, and it was a joint decision.” Kapil added that despite living abroad, the marriage ensures support, stability, and love for their wife as a united family.

Cultural Significance

This rare instance of polyandry has sparked debate about the relevance of indigenous traditions in modern Indian society. While some view it as a relic of the past, others see it as a living tradition that shapes the lives of people in meaningful ways. The Hatti community roots its practice of polyandry in the Mahabharata’s story of Draupadi, who had five husbands.

Team Profile

Aryan Gulati
Aryan GulatiFreelance Journalist
Aryan Gulati is a dedicated media student based in Meerut with a wealth of experience in various newspapers and media houses. He has numerous published articles and specializes in political and crime news writing, demonstrating a strong commitment to impactful journalism.

Leave a Reply