Indian traditions change almost as often as the terrain, and the mountains take this idea to another level. Up in Kinnaur, tucked away in the rugged, cold ridges of Himachal, the Raulane festival takes place with a kind of mystery you don’t see in big, loud celebrations. It has no fireworks and no giant crowds. This one is based on old beliefs – ghosts in the woods, fairies in the snow line and men carrying these stories forward throughout the village.
Across the Himalayan range – Uttarakhand, Himachal, parts of Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast – people have long believed that invisible beings walk with them. Isolation shaped their habits and nature dictated their stories. Fairies, guardians, and wandering spirits are not fantasy here; they are part of everyday memory.
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The fairies who lead the mountains
Uttarakhand calls its fairies Aachhris. Local lore describes them as protectors who take human form when they wish. One long-told story tells of Khait Parvat—a mountain said to be the gateway through which the Aachhris lead humans to their world.
Kinnaur has its own version. Here are fairies known as Sauni. During winter, when the cold can be unrelenting, people believe that the Saunas descend from the heavenly palaces to watch over the villages. They guide, protect and bring a sense of security that the community relies on.
Raulane marks the moment they are gently sent back. Not with goodbyes, but with rituals, dance and gratitude.
Raula, Raulane and the blessing dance
At the heart of the festival are Raula and Raulane – two men chosen to embody the ceremonial bride and groom. They walk, sing, laugh loudly and perform rituals together. They both dress in traditional Kinnaur woolen clothing, which is strong enough to withstand the cold. Masks hide their faces while gloves cover their hands. The bride wears elaborate headdresses, bracelets and pendants. The groom covers his face with a red cloth. Photos from the festival were trending on social media.
The main stop is the Nagin Narayan Temple. The men enter in full dress, say prayers, and then break into a slow, deeply symbolic dance. Villagers say that this dance acts as a channel between humans and the Sauni spirits. Everyone participates in some way – singing, stepping, or simply being present.
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A goodbye that’s really a promise
When the festival is over, the elders conduct the final rituals. The couple receives a blessing and the community asks the Saunas for protection for the next year. As they say, the fairies go to their meadows as soon as spring comes. Raulane is a moment to thank them before they return next season.
Frequently asked questions
What is Raulane Festival?
It is a Kinnaur celebration in honor of the mountain spirits and fairies known as Sauni.
Who are Raula and Raulane?
They are two men who dress up as a ceremonial bride and groom to perform rituals and dances.
Where does the main ritual take place?
The ritual is performed at the Nagin Narayan temple in Kinnaur.
Who are the Saunas?
They are fairies who are believed to protect the villagers during the harsh winter months.
Why do participants wear masks and blankets?
The clothing is part ritual, part tradition, symbolizing the transformation into spiritual figures.
