Two Himachal Brothers Marry Same Woman, Embracing Rare Tradition of Polyandry

In a rare but culturally rooted tradition, two brothers from Himachal Pradesh have married the same woman, reviving the age-old practice of polyandry still observed in certain Himalayan regions.

The Story:

The marriage took place in a remote village in the Kinnaur district, where polyandry—one woman marrying multiple brothers—is still practiced in some families. The brothers, aged 28 and 30, said the decision was mutual and done with full consent of all parties involved, including their families and the bride.

Why It Matters:

Polyandry in parts of Himachal, especially in Kinnaur and Spiti, has historical roots. Traditionally, it was practiced to preserve family land and resources, avoiding division across generations.

“We grew up seeing this in our village. It may be rare elsewhere, but here it’s about unity and practicality,” said the elder brother.

Cultural Echo:

The story has gone viral on social media, sparking debates around tradition vs modern values and consent in cultural practices.

While such practices are rare today, the marriage shines a light on India’s diverse social fabric, where centuries-old customs still exist alongside modern life.