India brothers marry same woman in ancient custom defying legal ban, and sparking criticism

In a rare public ceremony, Sunita Chauhan married two brothers, Pradeep (left) and Kapil Negi in Himachal Pradesh earlier this month. - Photo: Handout

SHIMLA, (India): A pair of brothers in rural India have married the same woman, upholding an ancient custom and sparking criticism from a women's rights group after photos of the wedding went viral.

Polyandry is banned in India but is legal in some of the tribal pockets, including Himalayan territories, allowing preservation of some ancient traditions.