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.

The festival culminates in a slow, deliberate dance performed by the Raula and Raulane inside the centuries-old Nagin Narayan temple, a sacred space for the community. This dance is seen as a channel between the mortal and divine realms, a silent communication where devotion speaks louder than words. For the villagers, this is a time when heaven and earth come closer, and the guiding fairies are believed to return to bless the community with warmth, safety, and abundance.

Raulane is a testament to the resilience and rich cultural heritage of Kinnaur, a region that has survived avalanches, invasions, and migrations over the centuries. As the world rushes forward, this festival serves as a reminder that some traditions are too sacred to abandon, and that the beauty of simplicity, home-grown products, and unwavering faith can still captivate and inspire.