Negi Brothers Cite Hatti Clan Tradition, Say Marriage Was Voluntary and Family-Approved
Key Highlights
- Two brothers from Himachal Pradesh married the same woman under ‘Jodidar Pratha’
- They say the polyandrous marriage follows a centuries-old Hatti clan tradition
- Ceremony held over 3 days in Shillai, Sirmaur, with full family and community support
- The brothers dismiss online criticism, calling it ignorance of local customs
What Is ‘Jodidar Pratha’?
‘Jodidar Pratha’ is a traditional polyandrous custom still practiced in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Jaunsar-Bawar in Uttarakhand. It involves brothers marrying the same woman, a practice historically used to preserve family land from being divided among siblings.
The Negi brothers, Pradeep and Kapil, from the Thindo family in Shillai, tied the knot with Sunita Chauhan from Kunhat village. The marriage, which took place from July 12 over three festive days, featured local dances, folk songs, and strong community participation.
Brothers Respond to Criticism
In a Facebook video, Pradeep Negi said:
“We’re proud of our traditions. People unfamiliar with our customs have no right to criticize.”
His brother Kapil added that the marriage was fully consensual, unlike some forced marriages elsewhere.
Both emphasized that the decision was:
- Mutually agreed upon by the trio
- Supported by family and society
- Rooted in tradition, not for fame or headlines
“We didn’t get married to trend on social media. We just want to stay together and be happy,” Kapil said.
Why This Tradition Exists
In mountainous regions like Sirmaur, where land is scarce and farming is difficult, fraternal polyandry helps keep landholdings intact. In such marriages:
- The eldest brother is often the legal father of any children
- The arrangement promotes family unity and land preservation
The Family’s Message to the Public
Pradeep concluded with an appeal:
“Let us live our lives. We’re happy, and our community is too. Respect our culture even if you don’t understand it.”
While the Negi brothers’ marriage under the Jodidar Pratha may seem unconventional to outsiders, it remains a deeply rooted cultural tradition for many in Himachal Pradesh’s Hatti community. As debates continue online, the family stands united—proud of their heritage and committed to preserving their way of life.
