TV
In a striking reminder of ancient traditions, two brothers from Himachal Pradesh’s Hatti community tied the knot with the same woman in a vibrant ceremony, showcasing the rare polyandry custom still alive in pockets of the state.
A Wedding Like No Other
Sunita Chauhan from Kunhat village married Pradeep and Kapil Negi of Shillai in Sirmaur district under the traditional practice of “Jodidara.” The three-day celebration, which began on July 12, drew thousands of villagers to witness folk songs, dances, and rituals unique to the Hatti culture. Sunita emphasized that the marriage was a mutual decision, free from coercion.
What is Jodidara?
Jodidara, also called Draupadi Pratha or Ujla Paksh, is a form of fraternal polyandry where two or more brothers share one wife. This practice, reminiscent of Draupadi’s marriage to the five Pandavas in the Mahabharata, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Hatti tribe of the Trans-Giri region.
Why Do Families Practice Polyandry?
In the hilly terrain of Himachal Pradesh, where agriculture depends on undivided land, Jodidara serves a pragmatic purpose. By marrying one woman to several brothers, families prevent the fragmentation of ancestral property and maintain joint household unity. Children born in such unions are raised collectively, with the eldest brother often recognized as the legal father.
Is It Legal?
Though polyandry is generally prohibited in India, Himachal Pradesh’s High Court has upheld this practice among tribal communities under “Jodidar Law.” The Hatti people regard it as a vital part of their cultural identity.
Keeping Tradition Alive
While modern influences have led to a decline in Jodidara, it continues to survive in small pockets. In the past six years, five such marriages have been recorded in the Trans-Giri region, keeping this ancient custom alive.
