Explore The Fascinating Myths Of Shimla's Local Culture

India.com

a day ago

Resting on the foothills of Himalayan mountains, Shimla is a capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Like other northern hill stations of India, Shimla is famous for it's beautiful weather. It is also rich in local historical legends and myths. This town has been famous for its beautiful colonial buildings, green hills, heritage, culture and folklores. All these stories make this town magical with myths which and historical facts blend together. Follow us for an intriguing and mesmerizing storytelling adventure of bewildering legends from Shillong while I carefully reveal some of the hidden local lore and myths.
1.The Tale of Jakhoo Temple and the Giant Footprint of Hanuman
At the apex of Jakhoo Hill, the oldest Jakhoo Temple is situated in Shimla, and as it is the point at which a temple is located, it is surrounded by dense forests. The temple is built in honor of Lord Hanuman, the monkey god from Ramayana. Legend says that while Hanuman was carrying an entire mountain to Lanka, he happen to take a break at Jakhoo Hill. During his downtime, it is believed that he uprooted the entire hill to fill it with medicinal herbs that needed to be given to Lord Rama's brother Lakshmana. The temple is said to mark the place where Hanuman Nazareth, and there lies a giant footprint inside the temple that is said to be his. The temple rests on his back, which is believed to be there when he takes rest in the mountain.
This tale incorporated along with astonishing temples gives the forest a sense of pride. Everyone who visits the temple seems to enjoy the peace and the beauty that the Himalayas have to offer.
2.The Ghostly Tale of the Glen
Apart from being a great place for picnics, The Glen, located close to Shimla, is a hauntingly beautiful place that is famous for a spine-chilling ghost story. A local tells the tale of a British officer's wife who's spirit still wanders around The Glen. The woman, who deeply loved her husband, died during the colonial era after meeting a tragic end in the forest. She became so desperate from loneliness that one wrong turn into a forest led to a deep ravine which ultimately took her life.
Legends say that during cold, moonlit nights her ghost wanders around The Glen. Many claim that they have been lucky enough to hear the echo of her mournful cries flowing through the wind, while others say they have spotted a ghostly figure wrapped in a white gown. Irrespective of if it is true or not, Glen remains one of the most serene places with plenty of mystery.
3.The Myth of the Scandal Point
Amidst all the nature, Scandal Point, a popular landmark within Shimla, attracts a lot of tourists and locals hoping to admire the mountains and forests. However, it is interesting to note that the name of the landmark itself stems from ancient folklore. As per popular beliefs, during colonial reign, the Maharaja of Patiala is said to have scandalously abducted the daughter of the British Viceroy right from the vantage point which caused a lot of controversies back in the day leading to it being named Scandal Point.
It may be true or not that this tale is fabricated, but it is well known within the region. Now, Scandal Point serves not only as a place of interest for visitors and tourists, but also as an emblematic sign of love and rebellion for the locals reminding them of the rich history the city possesses.
4.The Enigmatic Tale of Kali Bari Temple
Another spot containing historical heritage in Shimla is the Kali Bari Temple, located near Mall Road. Similar to Kali Temple, this spot is also worshiped and is said to have been built by a Bengali Brahmin who brought the goddess's idol from Kolkatta. As the popular folklore goes, the Brahmin is said to have seen an idol of goddess Kali where she told him to construct a temple in Shimla to guard the place from evil.
This temple holds deeply ingrained within its walls the legend of a fierce Goddess slaying the demon Raktabija, exquisitely portraying the sacred victory of good over evil. Worshippers flock to the temple seeking blessings and protection with the annual Kali Puja festival celebrated with majesty, contributing further to the preexisting cultural richness of the city.
5.Two Mystic Pines of Chadwick Falls
Chadwick Falls is just a few kilometers from Shimla and for good reason famous, not only for its stunning beauty, but also its a local myth. The myth states that the profound pine forests bordering the falls host spirits that talk in whispers. Moreover, the legend claims to grant those who can hear secrets and use them to gain profound understanding and lucidity in their life.
The combination of the whispering pines and serene waters cascading down forms an ethereal and enchanting atmosphere allures people. Many people find themselves spellbound by the beauty of the place wondering whether the whispers are real or just in their imagination.
Conclusion
Shimla is a perfect blend of tourism or sightseeing action and historic places. The myths and stories, created out of the cultural heritage of the charming Shimla City, add to the beauty of the town. Every landmark and site associated with Shimla has a legendary story behind it.Perhaps the most notable legends are the presence of Hanuman in Jakhoo Temple and the ghost in Glen.
Walking down the slopes of Shimla, try and hear the stories as they are not mere stories but symbols of what life used to be like for people who live there. Surely, Shimla's charm lies not only in its grand colonial architecture, pleasant weather, and rolling hills, but also the myriad tales it possesses deep within its heart. The town is indeed a unique backpacking paradise brimming with delightful adventures.