The Himalayan Ritual You’ve Never Heard Of: Raulane’s Sacred Bride and Groom Ceremony
In the remote valleys of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh the Raulane Festival stands as one of the region s most fascinating winter traditions According to local folklore the festival is nearly years old rooted in the belief that protective mountain spirits known as Sauni descend during the harsh winter months These spirits are believed to safeguard villagers when the region is cut off by snow offering comfort and protection Kinnaur s geographical isolation for centuries helped preserve this ritual in its original form allowing the community to carry forward a tradition that remains deeply spiritual and culturally intact even today Raula and Raulane The Ritual Bride and GroomAt the centre of the festival are two men chosen to play the symbolic roles of Raula groom and Raulane bride Though the roles resemble a wedding the ritual has no connection to marriage Both performers completely cover their faces with masks of
