Colourful and vibrant photographs from Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district have brought the spotlight back on the centuries-old Raulane festival, with social media users expressing awe and curiosity about the unique ritual. The images, widely shared online, capture a sacred tradition that locals have preserved for generations.

What is Raulane festival

The Raulane festival, celebrated in winter or early spring, honours celestial beings known as Saunis. Villagers believe these gentle, radiant spirits protect them during Kinnaur’s harsh winters by offering warmth, guidance, and blessings. The festival is a symbolic expression of gratitude toward these divine protectors.

A key part of the celebration involves two men who take on sacred roles representing a divine couple, the Raula (groom) and the Raulane (bride). This act is not a literal marriage but a spiritual ritual in which the two men become vessels for the Saunis. They dress in heavy woollen robes, ornaments, and traditional masks, embodying the divine presence.

The pair performs a slow, meditative dance at the Nagin Narayan Temple, while the entire village participates in the celebrations. The festival reinforces community unity, devotion, and the deep-rooted connection between humans and the divine that has existed in Himalayan culture for centuries.

About the visuals

The recent photos were shared on Instagram by photographer Abhinav Chandel, who also included a detailed explanation of the festival. He urged viewers to respect the sacredness of the tradition and avoid spreading misinformation. “Please share it across, so people understand the sacredness of this culture instead of spreading misunderstood facts,” he wrote.

Social media users praised the festival’s beauty, while some raised concerns that increased popularity may lead to crowds and disrespectful tourism. One user commented that Raulane was peaceful when they attended last year, before the hype, and hoped that visitors would practise mindful and respectful travel. The viral posts have not only introduced a wider audience to the ancient festival but have also sparked a conversation about protecting and honouring Himachal Pradesh’s fragile cultural heritage.