A vibrant wedding in Shillai village, Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh, has sparked a new wave of conversation about the region’s traditional practice of polyandry, where two or more brothers marry the same woman. According to The Tribune, unlike most such unions which remain private, Pradeep Negi and his younger brother Kapil decided to openly share their marriage to Sunita Chauhan from Kunhat village, marking the event with proud community participation and three days of joyous festivities.
Tradition Takes the Spotlight
Polyandry continues in parts of the state, particularly among the Hattee community, though usually with little public attention. In this ceremony, the brothers affirmed their cultural roots and chose openness rather than secrecy. Pradeep is employed by the Jal Shakti Department, Kapil works overseas in hospitality, and together, they and Sunita celebrated their new life with music, feasting on local cuisine, and the blessings of relatives and villagers alike.
Partnership and Consent
All voices in the trio echoed an emphasis on mutual consent and respect. Pradeep described their union as a decision based on trust and shared responsibility for their family and future. Kapil, who flew in from abroad, participated fully and described the wedding as a commitment built on family unity. Sunita, reflecting on her choice, stressed she joined this tradition willingly, reiterating her belief in the supportive and strong bond formed by their marriage.
Understanding the Polyandry Practice
Polyandry in Trans-Giri and surrounding regions developed as a pragmatic response to social and economic needs: it prevented the division of ancestral land, ensured stability for widows, and strengthened joint families’ ability to manage both work and home. Elders in Shillai note that dozens of households maintain either polyandry or polygyny customs, though most retain privacy to avoid outside prejudice.
The Negi family’s public celebration is seen as an act of dignity and transparency. By marking their union with a collective gathering, they have drawn admiration from peers and elders, highlighting the values of honesty and cultural pride.
Evolving Identities: Tradition Meets Recognition
The timing of this wedding is significant as the Hattee community has recently gained Scheduled Tribe status, granting them new visibility and rights. Younger generations now seem more willing to practice and defend ancestral customs openly. For many locals, the event is a sign that indigenous traditions rooted in respect and consent can coexist with modern identities, provided all parties are in agreement.
Moving Forward: Tradition with Dignity
The story of Pradeep, Kapil, and Sunita offers a window into the continued relevance of indigenous practices grounded in partnership and openness. Their celebration invites a broader understanding, showing that customs shaped by community and consent can evolve rather than fade, carrying forward history with grace and candor.
Photo Credit: The Tribune
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