What is the Raulane festival in Kinnaur?

The Raulane festival in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh is a unique centuries-old celebration where men dress as symbolic "brides" and "grooms" to honor the celestial fairies known as Saunis.

How do the participants dress for the Raulane festival?

For the Raulane festival, the participants are completely covered in heavy Kinnauri woollens, with their faces and hands hidden, creating a mystical and divine appearance.

What is the significance of the Raulane festival dance?

The slow, deliberate dance performed by the "Raula" (groom) and "Raulane" (bride) inside the Nagin Narayan temple is seen as a channel between the mortal and divine realms, a silent communication where devotion speaks louder than words.

Home / Lifestyle / Raulane: The Himalayan Festival Where Men Become Symbolic Brides and Grooms

Raulane: The Himalayan Festival Where Men Become Symbolic Brides and Grooms

16 Nov

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Summary

Raulane festival in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh
Men dress as "grooms" and "brides" to honor celestial fairies
Faces and hands hidden behind heavy Kinnauri woollens

Raulane: The Himalayan Festival Where Men Become Symbolic Brides and Grooms

In the picturesque Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the mighty Himalayas, a unique and centuries-old festival called Raulane is celebrated by the local community. As of November 16, 2025, this festival continues to captivate visitors with its mystical rituals and deep-rooted traditions.

The highlight of Raulane is the symbolic "marriage" of two men, where one becomes the "Raula" (groom) and the other the "Raulane" (bride). However, this is not a real marriage, but rather a representation of the connection between the mortal world and the celestial realm of the Saunis, the guiding fairies of Himalayan lore.

What makes Raulane truly remarkable is the way the participants are adorned. Completely covered in heavy Kinnauri woollens, their faces and hands are hidden, creating a blurred, almost divine appearance. This disguise is not just for show, but a gateway to the spiritual world, as the villagers believe the pair becomes a vessel, a messenger, and a bridge to the Saunis.