Two Brothers Marry the Same Woman in Himachal: A Traditional Polyandry Wedding Sparks Attention

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In a rare and culturally significant event, two brothers from the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India, have married the same woman in a traditional polyandry ceremony. The wedding, celebrated with local rituals and music over three days, took place in Shillai village and has since drawn national attention for its bold revival of a fading Himalayan custom.

Two Brothers Marry the Same Woman: A Polyandry Revival in Himachal’s Hatti Community

The bride, Sunita Chauhan from Kunhat village, chose to marry both Pradeep and Kapil Negi, fully embracing the ancient custom practiced by the Hatti tribal community. “I was fully aware of this custom and made the decision willingly. It represents my respect for the bond we’ve built,” she shared.

Pradeep, a government employee, and Kapil, who works abroad, both expressed pride in their decision and emphasized that the union was made with full transparency and family consensus. The event, attended by hundreds, showcased a rare public celebration of a polyandrous marriage.

The Tradition of Polyandry in Hatti Tribe: A Cultural Insight

Known as “Joridara” under Himachal Pradesh revenue laws, polyandry has historical roots in the Hatti community. The practice was meant to prevent land fragmentation, maintain large family units, and ensure agricultural continuity in the difficult mountain terrain.

In 2022, the Hatti community was officially recognized as a Scheduled Tribe, giving legal weight to its customs. Kundan Singh Shastri, a community elder, explained, “This tradition goes back thousands of years. Its main aim was to preserve unity among brothers and protect agricultural land.”

Modern Shifts and the Disappearing Custom

While polyandry was once common in Hatti villages, it is now rarely practiced, largely due to the rise in education, economic mobility, and urban migration. Yet, villages like Badna have seen five similar marriages over the past six years, showing the practice hasn’t completely disappeared.

Sunita’s marriage to two brothers isn’t just a family affair—it’s a reflection of cultural survival amid modern change.

Legal Framework and Social Acceptance

This type of marriage is not recognized under India’s general marriage laws, but tribal customs like those of the Hatti community are protected under regional statutes. The openness of this wedding, held publicly, marks a shift in how such unions are perceived even within conservative regions.

Cultural Significance in 2025 and Beyond

Such weddings challenge societal norms and highlight how local traditions adapt to the pressures of modern life. They serve as reminders of the diversity within India’s cultural fabric, and how traditions—no matter how ancient—can find a place in the modern era when supported by community values and mutual respect.

This extraordinary case of two brothers marrying the same woman in Himachal brings renewed focus to the deeply rooted polyandry tradition and highlights how ancient customs can evolve in today’s world.

You Must Know:

Is polyandry legal in India?
Polyandry is not officially recognized under Indian civil law, but tribal communities like the Hatti may follow traditional practices with some local legal backing.

Why does polyandry exist in some communities?
To prevent land division, maintain joint family farming, and support social unity in harsh terrains.

How common is this in Himachal Pradesh?
Rare today, but historically practiced among Hatti and a few other tribal communities.

Did the bride consent to marry two men?
Yes, Sunita Chauhan stated she made the choice willingly and with respect for the relationship she shares with both men.

Is there public support for such marriages?
While not mainstream, this particular wedding saw community participation, suggesting increasing local acceptance.