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Ghosts Roaming in the Dow Hill Forest and School

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In the thick forest at Dow Hill in Kurseong, locals have reported seeing strange things between the trees and in the old school from colonial times are said to have ghosts in attendance even when the school is closed.  

In the picturesque hills of Kurseong in West Bengal, lies a forest as well as a school shrouded in mystery and dark legends. About 30 kilometers from Darjeeling, this place has been the subject of numerous paranormal sightings and eerie occurrences. 

The Dow Hill of Kurseong is also known as the Land of White Orchids in the Lepcha language. The Lepcha people were the first people that settled in the area and the place has been fought over by both the Indian kingdoms as well as Nepal. 

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

The town also offers a fantastic view of the Teesta Valley and the surrounding Himalayan ranges. It is high up in the mountains with a pleasant climate and therefore popular to the British when they colonized India. 

But it is also known as a very haunted place. From ghostly apparitions to inexplicable footsteps, many visitors and locals have reported feeling an unnerving presence, especially in the dense forests surrounding the old school. What makes Dow Hill so haunted? 

The Ghosts of the Dow Hill Forest

The Dow Hill Forest is a dense and eerie forest that surrounds the school. Many people have reported feeling an unnerving presence in the forest, as if they are being watched by someone or something.

Read More: Check out more haunted forests from around the world

In the forest people keep talking about seeing the ghost of a boy close to what the locals call the Death Road between the Dow Hill Road and the Forest Office. Visitors as well as local woodcutters have reported seeing a young boy walk along the road and disappearing into the forest. According to those telling the story, the boy is headless. When people tried to follow him, he had just disappeared into thin air in the thick forest. 

Kurseong: The mountain place is known for its lush and green nature. Here from  the plains from Gidda Pahar. //Source: Imran Samad/Wikimedia

Some have even claimed to have seen him chasing after them or have been watched by some red eyes. 

The forest is also home to the ghost of a young girl or woman wearing gray wandering in the mystic forest. The worst rumors about this haunted forest though, is that some people have been driven mad by it or sent them into a sort of trance.  

The History of Victoria Boys School

There are two historical schools in the area, one is Dowhill Girls and the other one is the Victoria Boys School was established in 1879 by the British Government and is one of the oldest schools in India. The school was named after Sir Ashley Eden, who was the Lieutenant Governor of Bengal from 1877 to 1879. The name was later changed to Dow Hill School in 1926.

It was originally meant for the children of British officers stationed in India and people working for the railway. It was later opened to Indian students as well. It is the boys school that is supposedly haunted. 

Dow Hill School: An old picture of Dow Hill School in Kurseong that are now supposedly haunted.

However, the school’s history is not all sunshine and rainbows. The area around Dow Hill has witnessed several tragedies over the years, including murders and accidents according to legends. The school has also had many students and teachers pass away due to illnesses. Some think that it is the haunting and darkness found in the forest that have entered the school as well. Or could it be the other way around?

Although there are no written records about this, the haunted rumors persist. It is particularly in the months of December to March a lot of the hauntings are supposed to happen. The school is closed then, but even if there is no one there, you can still hear whispers and footsteps coming from within from children. 

Many of the stories are told from the guards looking after it throughout the holiday, and they claim to hear voices of children in the dark corridors and seeing students there when there are not supposed to be any. 

The ghost of the headless ghost of the boy from the forest is also said to haunt this area. People have also claimed that the ghost of a boy has been seen looking at them through the window. 

Even though the ghost stories are plenty, the school management keeps insisting that there have never been a death on the school grounds. 

The Hauntings of Dow Hill

Dow Hill School as well as the surrounding forest is a place shrouded in mystery and dark legends. Especially in the last couple of years during October people have been reported to visit the school and forest in search of ghosts after the legends about the place started to spread and reach a wider audience.

The school and police have seen it’s necessary to put up signs notifying people where there are protected areas and no entries to keep people out from the schools. They also deny people permission to spend the night in the forest. For what reason could there be to keep them our from these woods?

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References:

Kurseong – Wikipedia  

Victoria Boys’ School (Kurseong) – Wikipedia 

The Headless Ghost Of Dow Hill, Kurseong 

Dowhill ‘ghost stories’ draw visitors to Kurseong – The Statesman 

Spirits of the Dow Hill of Darjeeling 

The haunted Dow Hill of Kurseong is the stuff real horror stories are made of

Dow Hill Kurseong: The Most Haunted Places In Darjeeling | Zee Zest 

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The Scorched Ghosts of Rana Kumbha Palace and the Chittorgarh Fort

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A queen is said to haunt the Rana Kumbha Palace and the Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan, India. Legend tells she jumped into the fire to escape invaders visitors talk about seeing a ghost with a burned face. 

Within the formidable Chittorgarh Fort by the banks on the Berach River south in Rajasthan, the Chittorgarh Fort and the Rana Kumbha Palace stands as a haunting testament to Rajasthan’s turbulent history.

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

The foundations of the first signs of a fort were built by the Mauryan ruler, Chitrangada Mori in the 8th century and have been built and rebuilt, burned and torn down to be rebuilt again. Through many wars, sieges and inside of the fort there are several temples, palaces and towers thought to be haunted. 

Chittorgarh Fort: The fort was the capital of Mewar and is located in the present-day city of Chittorgarh. The city is located in the southern part of the state of Rajasthan, from Ajmer, midway between Delhi and Mumbai

The Legend of Queen Padmini

One of the most poignant stories associated with Rana Kumbha Palace is that of Queen Padmini. Rani Padmavati was a princess from Sri Lanka who moved to Chittor after Rawal Rattan Singh won her in marriage. 

She was known for her beauty and many kings wanted her. The king of Kumbhalner Devapal for example is said to have dueled her husband for her hand, where both died. This caused Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi to lay siege on the fort in 1303 for eight months to have her instead.  

Although most historians reject this legend, it is the most retold. Some also claim that the husband died during the siege, some say he surrendered and was pardoned. But what about Padmini, which legend claim was the reason for the siege?

Queen Padmini: An 18th-century painting of Padmini. So many stories have been told about her throughout the years that many claim that she was a historical figure. But what she really, or was she just someone from a story?

To protect their honor from the invading Sultan, Queen Padmini, along with all the other women of the palace, perhaps as many as over a thousand of them, performed Jauhar, a ritual of self-immolation. This means jumping into a big fire instead of facing the shame of being abducted and taken.

They did this when under a threat of the muslim Mughals, as the dead bodies of the women, kafir women in their mind, would be raped and desecrated even after being dead. To burn themselves would at least spare them for this and all women’s bodies would be gone. 

When the Rajputs women and children were pressed into a corner in a fight, they committed Jauhar. Rajput women would wear their wedding dresses in the night and would bring their children to throw them into the sandalwood flames. At the fort there would be three Jauhar throughout the times. 

In 13013 some sources state that 1600 women sacrificed themselves, in 1534 there were 13 000 women doing the same when Bahadur Shah defeated Chittor and in 1568, Phool Kanwarn Rathore did a Jauhar with 7000 women during the reign of Akbar. 

How much of the legend is through though, historians disagree on. The siege itself is a historic event, but if the Hindu Queen Padmini died to escape the massacre of 30 000 Hindus by the Muslim invaders as the legend goes is more uncertain. 

The Ghost of Queen Padmini

The story of this act of ultimate sacrifice has left a spectral mark on the palace. It is believed that the spirits of Queen Padmini and the women who performed Jauhar still haunt the palace grounds, their presence felt in the form of inexplicable phenomena.

According to stories, her ghost is said to have manifested as well and a tale getting passed around online claim to have seen her. A few years ago it is said that a group of friends decided to test their nerves and spend the night at the palace. They say while exploring the big area, one of them clearly heard a woman’s voice begging for help. When they turned, a figure appeared—a woman in royal clothes, her face horribly burned.

Even after all these years, an annual fair known as Jauhar Mela is celebrated every year to honor their sacrifices. It is said that she did it in what is now known as the Rana Kumbha Palace, and according to legend, she is not the only one haunting it. 

The Ghost of Queen Padmini: It is said that when a group of friends went exploring and claimed to have seen the burned ghost of the former queen who threw herself into the flames instead of being captured.

The King Haunting his Castle

The now ruined Rana Kumbha Palace is found at the entrance gate near the Vijaya Stamba, built in plastered stone. A lot of the big events are said to have happened here, and this is the place many referring to being haunted. 

The tragic legend of Queen Padmini is not the only ghost story linked to this palace though, as it is also said that the Maharana of Mewar, Rana Kumbha is haunting it. 

Read more: Check out all of the Haunted Castles around the world

He ruled at the start of the 1500s and transformed the Kingdom of Mewar into a mighty kingdom reaching far and wide, becoming the most powerful state in northern India.

In the war against the Mughals he promised he would not return to Chittor until he had defeated Babur of the Mughal Empire and conquered Dehli. But he never did and was poisoned by his own nobles who didn’t want another war, possibly by his own son, Prince Udaysimha who wanted the throne. 

It is said that ever since, his spirit has been lingering in his palace and visitors claim to have seen the shadowy figure of him passing through the halls.

Visitors to Rana Kumbha Palace often report a variety of paranormal experiences within the walls of the palace’s dilapidated state, with its crumbling walls and remnants of a bygone era. Strange sounds, whispers, and apparitions are commonly cited by those who dare to explore its dark corridors and rooms. 

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References:

Chittor Fort – Wikipedia 

Siege of Chittorgarh (1303) – Wikipedia 

Rani Padmini – Wikipedia 

RANA KUMBHA PLACE – India most haunted place

7 Haunted Places to Visit in Rajasthan: Complete Information 

8 Most Haunted Places in Rajasthan, India – Exemplore 

The haunting tales of Chittorgarh | Sanskriti – Hinduism and Indian Culture Website 

Best Haunted Places in Rajasthan – You Must Visit 

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The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops: A Haunting Tale on Manali-Leh Road

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A huge pile of trash marks on the side of Manali-Leh Road by the Gata Loops marks the grave and the ghost temple put up for a ghost allegedly haunting the area after dying in a snowstorm. What is the strange story behind The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops?

Are you planning an adventurous road trip from Manali to Leh in the Indian mountains of Himachal Pradesh? Chances are you’ll pass through the famous Gata Loops along the way through the mountainous landscape, a pretty unknown place except for the locals. While this stretch of road is known for its challenging 21 hairpin bends, it also holds a spine-tingling story that travelers often encounter.

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Gata Loops, true to its name, is a series of winding and looping roads that form 21 hairpin bends. Situated on the Manali-Leh road at an elevation of approximately 17,000 feet, these loops stretch over 10.3 kilometers, with each loop spanning between 300-600 meters. However, the last two loops deviate from this pattern, being 800 and 1,000 meters long, respectively.

Gata Loops in the Indian Mountains: Sharp turns, remote mountainous area and treacherous weather can make driving on the Gata Loops on Manali Road dangerous and one particular ghost story about one who died on these roads have given rise to its own ghost temple at the side of the road.

What is the Ghost Temple in Manali

Among the bikers hiking up the mountains, or travelers passing through, they gather around and tell tales of mystery about the area. One of those tales is about the strange Ghost Temple of Gata Loops with a harrowing story behind it. 

A huge pile of trash and plastic water bottles and cigarettes marks the place of the Ghost Temple in Manali at around the 19th bend of the Gata Loops. But what exactly is it, and who is the ghost haunting this particular stretch of road?

Read more: Check out all of the Haunted Roads around the world

Exactly when this happened varies according to those that tell it. Some place it in 1999, perhaps an October night. A truck carrying goods found itself in a dire situation as the winters in these parts can be quite treacherous. 

The Ghost Temple of Manali-Leh Road: On the loops of Manali-Leh Road, a pile of trash have collected around the believed ghost temple of a driver that supposedly died and haunts these parts. //Source: The Ghost Of Gata Loops – Vargis Khan

While trucks are known to navigate these loops, for those seeking a less challenging route, shortcuts are available. The steeply elevated roads are wide enough for trucks, making them a preferred choice for transporting goods.

Crossing the treacherous Rohtang Pass during the cold autumn going to winter night when it had already snowed in places, this truck faced mechanical problems and the trucker was unable to fix it. With no help in sight and facing harsh weather conditions, the driver and his assistant helper decided to wait for assistance.

A Desperate Journey

The driver embarked on a challenging walk to the nearest village, Sarchu, to find a mechanic, leaving his unwell helper behind to protect the cargo. However, heavy snowfall held the driver and stopped him from returning.

Several days later, when the weather cleared, the driver returned to find his helpmate’s lifeless body. The severe cold, hunger, and thirst had claimed his life. Local villagers buried the deceased by the road’s 19th bend that soon turned into The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops.

The Ghostly Apparition of The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops

Over the years, travelers reported encountering a young man along their journey who sought water and provisions close to The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops. Those who stopped and gave the man a water bottle saw it slipped right through his hands. 

The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops: Source

Believing this figure to be the ghost of the deceased helper, local villagers established a small shrine to placate his spirit. Passersby often leave mineral water and cigarettes at the shrine to prevent potential wrath or calamities along the way.

What happened that winter night is hard to prove or disprove. People are still giving away water to the bricks that make a little clearing by The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops. Inside it is a real human skull placed inside. Or so the saying goes at least. 

Regardless, some travelers claim to have experienced the apparition of the ghostly helper around the area of The Ghost Temple of Gata Loops. If you dare to venture along this eerie path, tread with caution, but remember that a world of enchanting landscapes awaits you beyond Gata Loops.

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References:

https://gomissing.in/blog/travel/ladakh/ghost-of-gata-loops-other-mysteries-of-leh-ladakh

The Ghost Of The Gata Loops | TDA Global Cycling 

Do you know of the ghost temple on Gata Loops on Manali-Leh Road? | Times of India TravelThe Ghost Of Gata Loops – Vargis Khan

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The Haunted Mystique of Chand Baori and the Djinns Building the Stepwell

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One of the oldest and deepest stepwells in India, Chand Baori are said to have been built over the course of a night by djinns. Still to this day, the cool and dark place is said to be haunted by something. 

In the quiet village of Abhaneri in the eastern Dausa district of Rajasthan, Chand Baori stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of ancient India. Built during the 8th and 9th centuries by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty, this ancient stepwell is one of the deepest and largest in the country, although not always the easiest to find.

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Its haunting beauty and the eerie ambiance is also supposed to be one of the oldest and largest stepwells in the world and have earned it a reputation as one of the most haunted sites in Rajasthan, drawing curious visitors and paranormal enthusiasts alike.

Photo by AXP Photography on Pexels.com

Architectural Marvel with a Dark Side

Chand Baori is an architectural marvel, featuring 3,500 narrow steps arranged in a precise geometrical pattern, descending 13 stories deep into the silent depth of the earth. The walls have images like Sheshasayee Vishnu reclining on the serpent Ananta and Mahishasuramardini. On the sides there are shrines to Ganesha. According to legends, there are also tunnels connecting Abhaneri to Dausa.

These stepwells served many purposes as well as getting water, being a place for gatherings of religious and ceremonial activities among others. 

The structure’s desolate appearance, combined with the echoes of footsteps reverberating through the empty well, contribute to its haunting reputation. All the way on the bottom the air is about 5-6 degrees cooler than at the surface. The sense of isolation and the shadows cast by the ancient stones create an eerie atmosphere, especially during the evenings or on cloudy days.

Photo by Yohantha Gunawarna on Pexels.com

Legends and Paranormal Tales of Chand Baori

Local legends whisper of spirits and djinns that are said to haunt Chand Baori. According to folklore, the stepwell was constructed overnight by spirits, and those who disturb its tranquility risk invoking their wrath. 

Visitors and locals alike have reported strange occurrences, from sudden drops in temperature to the feeling of being watched. There are also those who claim that they get a sudden feeling of being nauseous as they descend down the stairs.

The stillness and darkness within the depths of Chand Baori can be unsettling. Some visitors claim to have heard whispers and footsteps echoing in the silent corridors, while others report seeing shadowy figures lurking in the corners of the well. 

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References:

Chand Baori haunted | Times of India Travel

Chand Baori – Wikipedia

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The Haunting of Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel in India’s Hills

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Amidst the green hills is the red Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel which are said to be haunted by people that have stayed there. There are many legends, and there are even rumors that the hotel had to close down for a while because of the paranormal activity going on. 

In the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, lies the Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel, a luxurious resort that boasts picturesque views of the lush Nilgiri Mountains covered in blue Kurunji flowers in Ooty town, known as “Queen of Hill Stations” in the country. 

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Many have reported strange sightings and supernatural occurrences within the Swiss styled hotel’s walls, leading to its reputation as one of India’s most mysterious and haunted destinations. 

Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel: The old hotel is thought to be haunted. This rumor gre popular especially after a horror movie was set there and when the crew claimed to have experienced strange things during filming. // Source

The Haunting of Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel

The most famous ghost story retold from the hotel comes from a Bollywood production. In 2002, the Bollywood dance choreographer Saroj Khan traveled to Ooty to shoot the movie, Raaz. She and her troupe checked into the Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel and expected a relaxing night. During the night however, they were kept awake by the people upstairs where it sounded like they were rearranging the furniture, making such a ruckus that they couldn’t sleep. 

They called the receptionist, but there was no answer, like the phone was dead. They endured the night with all the moving upstairs without making any more fuss, and the next day they complained about it to the receptionist. 

The receptionist was confused and said: But there is no floor upstairs, and even took the time to show them from the outside when they all became confused. Indeed, there was no room above them. But what then, had kept them up all night?

The History of Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel

But let’s have a look at the hotel’s history to understand where the haunted rumors could come from. The Fern Hill Hotel, formerly known as the Palace Hotel, was built in 1844 as the summer residence of the Maharaja of Mysore. The Swiss Chalet gives it an alpine look where it sits in the lush greenery of cardamom and tea plantations. 

The hotel was also initially used as a summer retreat for British officials during the British Raj era and their families as an escape from the heat from the humid plains of the Madras Presidency to the much cooler climate. 

Read more: Check out all of the Haunted Hotels around the world

It was later converted into a hotel in the 1920s and was renamed the Fern Hill Hotel. The hotel has since undergone several renovations and is now a luxurious resort that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Ghost Sightings and Paranormal Activity

Over the years, many strange events have been reported at the Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel. Guests and staff members have reported hearing unexplained noises, seeing ghostly apparitions, and feeling a presence in their rooms. 

There are several theories behind the haunting at the Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel. Some believe that the hotel was built on land that was once a burial ground, which has caused the spirits of the dead to haunt the hotel. 

Others believe that the haunting are a result of the hotel’s dark history, which includes the deaths of several guests and staff members. One rumor of a particular woman who committed suicide at the hotel has been widely spread as well. 

The Controversy Surrounding Fern Hill Hotel

Despite its haunted reputation, there are some who believe that the haunting at the Fernhills Royal Palace Hotel are nothing more than a hoax. Some skeptics have pointed out that the hotel has a financial incentive to promote its haunted reputation, as it attracts visitors and increases revenue. 

As for the filming of the movie Raaz and what the dance troupe experienced during their night, it is worth noting that the movie is actually a supernatural horror movie, and that the stories of the haunted room upstairs that didn’t exist was all rumored to be a part of the movie promotion. 

For a long time the hotel closed down in March 2018. The official reason is that they closed down for renovation. Many claimed it was because of the haunted rumors that had started to accumulate around the hotel and the many incidents of paranormal activity. It has reopened again now however, the question is, with or without ghosts?

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References:

The Fernhills Palace, Ooty – Wikipedia 

Most Haunted Places in Ooty and Their Spooky Stories 

Secrets behind Raaz and more… | Bollywood – Hindustan Times  

Raaz (2002 film) – Wikipedia

Ghostbusting goals: the most haunted hotels in India 

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Taking a Bath to get Rid of Ghosts at Sudhabay Kund

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An annual festival or fair according to the Hindu calendar tells that by taking a bath in the well of Sudhabay Kund you can rid yourself of evil spirits and pain inflicted by ghosts.  

In the spiritual heartland of Pushkar, Rajasthan, Sudhabay Kund is a place steeped in ancient lore and haunting mysteries. Known for its profound association with Lord Brahma and the sacred rituals that have been performed here for centuries. It is said that the water in this miraculous well known as Sudhabay Kund can help rid your body against any problems and pain caused by spirits and ghosts. 

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Each year on special days according to the Hindu calendar, Sudhabay Kund becomes the epicenter of a unique and eerie event: the “Ghost Fair,” where the supernatural meets the spiritual, creating an atmosphere that is both mystical and spine-chilling.

Historical and Spiritual Significance of Sudhabay Kund

Sudhabay Kund is situated near the revered Brahma Temple 4 kilometers from Pushkar, a town that holds a unique place in Hindu mythology as the site of one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. 

According to legend, the Kund was formed when Lord Brahma struck the ground with his divine weapon during an ancient yagna (sacred ritual), resulting in the creation of this sacred water body. The Kund has since been considered a holy site where the divine and mortal worlds intersect.

Cleansing for Ghosts: at the well Sudhabay Kund there is an annual happening where people gather to have a dip in the well to rid themselves of ghosts.

The Ghost Fair: An Annual Spectacle of the Supernatural

What sets Sudhabay Kund apart from other sacred sites is its annual “Ghost Fair,” an event unlike any other. This fair, which takes place during specific astrological alignments according to the Hindu calendar—often on the fourth day of the waxing moon and Tuesday—draws people from far and wide seeking liberation from spiritual afflictions. 

During the fair, unusual and eerie rituals dominate the scene. The air is thick with chants and the fervent prayers of those seeking relief from ghostly possessions and negative energies. Exorcisms are performed in plain view, adding to the haunted ambiance of the fair. The sight of individuals writhing and convulsing as they are “cleansed” of spirits is both unsettling and captivating, drawing large crowds who come to witness these otherworldly events.

A person enters the well and the spirit is said to start screaming and reveals its name as the priests around recite mantras, releasing the body. 

The waters of Sudhabay Kund are considered especially potent during the fair. Locals and visitors alike believe that taking a dip in the lake after witnessing the ghostly rituals offers protection from malevolent forces and purifies the soul. This transformative experience is said to rid one of spiritual burdens and bring peace.

A Gathering for Ancestral Solace

Beyond the eerie spectacle of exorcisms, the Ghost Fair also serves a deeply spiritual purpose. Many come to perform ancestral rituals such as Pind Dan and Tarpan, seeking solace for their departed loved ones and the queues for it can be long. 

Read Also: This is not the only happening around ghost though. Check out The Obon Celebration – The Ghost Festival and Halloween Traditions Across the World

These rituals, believed to ensure peace for the souls of the deceased, add another layer of solemnity to the fair. Devotees hope that by performing these rites at Sudhabay Kund, they can bring happiness and tranquility to their families.

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References:

Sudhabay Kund Pushkar: A Spiritual Destination for Pind Dan & Liberation from Ghostly Troubles

https://www.patrika.com/ajmer-news/history-of-sudhabay-kund-in-pushkar-ajmer-4400848

सुधाबाय में भरा भूत प्रेत का मेला, गया कुंड में स्नान के लिए उमड़ी श्रद्धालुओं की भीड – Morning News India 

7 Haunted Places to Visit in Rajasthan: Complete Information

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The Mystery of the Bird Suicides in Jatinga, Assam

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Known as the Valley of Death, the little town of Jatinga in Assam is the place of an annual mass death of birds that has puzzled scientists for years. The locals have long thought the seemingly suicidal birds were angry spirits from the sky come to torment them. 

Deep in the heart of the Dima Hasao district of Assam lies a small village shrouded in mystery and surrounded by eerie legends. This is Jatinga, a place where birds fall from the sky in droves, and strange lights flicker in the darkness. For years, scientists, researchers, poets and curious visitors have tried to unravel the secrets of this enigmatic village, but the truth remains elusive. 

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Some believe the small town of Jatinga with only 2500 people is a cursed place, haunted by the spirits of the dead. Others claim that it is a vortex of strange energies that attract birds and other creatures to their doom. 

The Mystery of Jatinga: Birds committing suicide

Jatinga is known for its strange phenomenon of birds committing suicide and it has at least been happening for over a century. Every year, during the months of August to November, between 7 pm to 10 pm, hundreds of birds come crashing down to the ground in Jatinga. It is said it happens mostly on moonless and foggy dark nights.

The Birds of Assam: Jatinga in Assam, India has long been known as the Bermuda Triangle of Birds. The strange case of countless of birds seemingly plummeting to their death has puzzled scientists for years.

It is a bizarre sight that has puzzled researchers for years. The birds that are affected are usually night migratory species that come from the Himalayan ranges. The birds that are affected by this phenomenon include the tiger bunting, black bittern, and little egret, amongst others.

Theories Behind the Bird Suicides

The local tribals first took this natural phenomenon to be spirits flying from the sky to terrorize them and is also believed to be behind killing many of those that have plunged to death with bamboo poles. Many studies over the years have dispelled the bird suicide theory, but says it is actually the village on a killing spree of the birds to eat them. 

There have been many theories behind the bird suicides in Jatinga. Some people believe that the birds are attracted to the lights in the village and become disoriented, leading to their deaths. It could also be the wind that makes them go towards the lights as safety but are hit with bamboo poles on their way down and killed. 

Others believe that the birds are driven to suicide by a magnetic force that emanates from the hills surrounding Jatinga. However, none of these theories have been scientifically proven.

Legends and Myths Associated with Jatinga

Jatinga is steeped in legends and myths that add to its enigmatic aura. One of the most popular legends associated with Jatinga is that it is a cursed place. It is also said that this is why the villagers set up the bamboo poles, who feared the birds that they thought were evil spirits sent from the sky to cause them harm and it was meant as more of a protective measurement when the birds got attracted to the lights from the village. Or whatever that is making the birds drop from the sky that is.  

The Green Country: Assam at the eastern foot of the Himalayas is often associated with mysteries and mythical tales and the hill village of Jatinga is just one of them. The place is also known for its diversity of faun and flora.

According to the legend, a powerful witch cursed the village, causing the birds to fall from the sky. The witch is said to have been angered by the villagers who refused to help her when she was in need. Another legend states that Jatinga is the gateway to the underworld, and the birds that fall from the sky are the spirits of the dead trying to communicate with the living.

The Enduring Mystery of Jatinga

Jatinga is a place that continues to baffle scientists, researchers, and visitors alike. Its strange phenomenon of bird suicides, haunted places, and legends have made it an enigmatic destination that draws people from all over the world. While the truth behind the mysteries of Jatinga may never be fully understood, one thing is for sure: it is a place that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to explore its secrets.

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References:

Jatinga Dima Hasao Assam – Best Place for Bird Watching in Assam 

A Mystery Yet To Be Uncovered! Birds Have Committed Suicide In This Assam Village Every Year Since Centuries 

Jatinga – Wikipedia

A Tiny Village Called Jatinga In Assam Is One Of The Creepiest Places on Earth 

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The Haunting of Nahargarh Fort and the Ghost of Past and Present

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Exactly who is haunting the Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur, India? Could it be a spirit that was said to haunt the area even before the fort on the hill was built? And could it have something to do with the tragic death that happened in recent times?

Perched on the rugged edge of the Aravalli hills, Nahargarh Fort stands as a silent sentinel overlooking the Pink City of Jaipur. Its towering walls, designed to seclude the royals from the world, enclose not only a rich historical legacy but also a chilling reputation as one of Rajasthan’s most haunted places. Despite its architectural grandeur, the fort’s eerie atmosphere and ghostly tales continue to captivate and terrify visitors.

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Nahargarh Fort was part of a triad of fortresses, including Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, constructed to bolster the defense of Jaipur, although it never really came under attack in the end. 

The Nahargarh Fort: Overlooking Jaipur from its surronding hills. There are many haunted stories about this place, even from the time it was built. // Source: Photo by Mayur Sable on Pexels.com

The Ghost of Nahar Singh Bhomia

The Nahargarh Fort, originally named Sudarshangarh, was later renamed Nahargarh, meaning ‘abode of tigers.’ Legend has it that the fort was named after a spirit named Nahar Singh Bhomia, a Rathore prince, or perhaps a guardian of the place, whose restless soul was appeased by dedicating the fort in his name and building a temple in his honor.

The Rathore dynasty, or Rathor, was an Indian dynasty belonging to the Rathore clan of Rajputs that has historically ruled over parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

It is said that when they built the fort, the workers would come in the mornings and find their work damaged, walls knocked over in the night when no one was there. They believed it had to be the work of a ghost, not pleased about the building of the fort. This was said to have happened for many days until they took action. 

Ponderik Ji was a royal Brahmin, the highest caste and hindu priest, and tried to appease the ghost by performing Tantric rites and promising to build a temple on the Amagarh hill, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, of the unhappy prince that had his former territory taken over by someone else. You can still see and visit the temple in Ghat Ki Guni. In addition they also built a temple in the fort itself, just to be safe.

The Ghost of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II

However, the most enduring ghostly presence associated with Nahargarh Fort is that of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (3 November 1688 – 21 September 1743) himself. He was the 29th ruler of the Kingdom of Amber and moved his kingdom’s capital from the town of Amber to the newly established walled city of Jaipur in 1727.

Read more: Check out all of the Haunted Castles around the world

His passion for this fort, built as a retreat much used by him and his 12 wives, was so profound that it is said his spirit still lingers within its walls after he died after never recovering from the Battle of Gangwana. 

Despite the passage of centuries, the ghostly presence of the Maharaja continues to cast a shadow over the fort, entwining his legacy with tales of the supernatural.

The Many Ghosts of the Fort: Exactly who is said to haunt the Nahargarh Fort today? Many believe it is the king who built it, possibly the original ghost that was haunted as it was built. Or could it be some of the other tragic legends that are left on the fort?// Source: Photo by Kenneth Christopher on Pexels.com

The Imprisoned Dancer at the Nahargarh Fort

One of the legends of the Nahargarh Fort is that one of the dancers of the Jaipur court, Ras Kapoor, was imprisoned here. She is said to have been at the court during the reign of Sawai Jagat Singh (1786-1818 AD). 

Her mother was a court dancer and she was born as one and learned dancing under Paro begum, the department for skills, arts and talents. He was in love with the dancer and wanted to marry her and gave her half the empire and wealth. Although at the time he already had 21 queens and 24 concubines. 

This gave her the right to sit in the court right beside the king on the throne and immense power. She used her power as well and started to govern. He became disinterested in local affairs and the story about why and who the dancer was spread among the locals. The court and the public didn’t like it one bit and some of the feudal lords opposed Ras Kapoor publicly. 

Fearing the court and public opinions, Sawai Jagat Singh felt he had no other choice but imprison her in the fort. Or was it the court that imprisoned her there while her Maharaja was fighting the Pindaris? 

How it ended varies. Was she killed there by the court ministers or queens? Thrown out of the window of her room? Did the king then die from a broken heart the year after? Some say that when the king died, Ras Kapoor was alive, but she fled from her prison and threw herself into the pyre at his burial. 

Did it happen though? Some claim that it was not in Nahargarh Fort it all went down, but that she was imprisoned in Jaigarh. Some also say that this legend has a contribution to the haunted legends that are said to go on in the fort. Could it be that some of the victims of the court and society rules of the time here are still haunting it?

The Mysterious Murder or Suicide

One of the newer rumors about the Nahargarh Fort though, is how the ghost of whoever is haunting it came back when restoring it at some non-specific time. It is said that the work angered the ghost so much that they had something to do with the sudden death of the leader of the restoration work who were found dead in his home.

But what really happened here, and how did it affect the legend of the haunted fort?

One of the incidents that got the murmuring haunting a bigger voice again was when a 40 year old man was found hanging from one of the bastions of the fort inside one of the rooms that caused a stir and reminded everyone about the haunted tales. The man was a local gem polisher named Chetan Kumar Saini and he was found on November 24th in 2017.

A strange charcoal scribble with a mysterious writing “We don’t just hang effigies, Padmavati.” was the only message close by. Perhaps directed to the protests over Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmavati. People in Rajasthan had protested against the portrayal of Padmini’s character in a movie about it, causing muslim’s and hindu’s to clash. There were other writings, like “Each infidel will meet this fate,” “ we are Allah’s men, we are powerful”.

Strange Writings: On the stones around the body, there were strange messages left. This mysterious case started people talking about The Nahargarh Fort haunted rumors again.

The death was suspicious and the police never concluded if it was a murder or a suicide. The family of the man claimed that it was actually a murder. The police found anti-morti injuries on his body that suggested suicide. It also showed he owed a huge amount of money that was due. 

Whatever really happened that tragic day is uncertain, and the mysteries remain. It did however remind people about the other mysteries about the fort that have been there before it was even built. 

Tales from the Dark

Stories of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena are common among those who have spent time within the Nahargarh Fort’s imposing walls. Some claim to have seen the specter of the Maharaja himself, wandering the corridors and ramparts as if still overseeing the fort. Others report hearing disembodied voices, footsteps echoing in empty halls, and doors that open and close on their own.

As the sun sets over the Aravalli hills and the shadows lengthen, Nahargarh Fort transforms from a monument of historical splendor to a place of eerie mystery. The tales of restless spirits, mysterious deaths, and supernatural occurrences ensure that Nahargarh Fort remains a haunting presence, its walls whispering secrets of a bygone era to those who dare to listen.

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References:

Sawai Jai Singh – Wikipedia 

Nahargarh Fort – Wikipedia 

Haunted Places in Jaipur & Nearby Region – Get Your Spook On 

Nahargarh Fort Jaipur | The Insider’s Guide | JaipurThruMyLens 

A love story that brought upheaval- Raskapur & Swai Maharaja Jagat Singh. – My expressions

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The Ghostly Whispers of Kolkata Dockyard by Wajid Ali Shah

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The ghost of the last Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh is said to be haunting the Kolkata Dockyard. After being betrayed and left by the British he is waiting for the chance of retribution as he is waiting for his ship that never came.

The Kolkata Dock, also known as Kidderpore Dock, is a historic maritime facility located along the banks of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, India. This bustling dockyard has played a pivotal role in the city’s maritime trade and industrial history. The dock spans a significant stretch of the riverfront, characterized by its extensive network of piers, quays, and warehouses.

The Kolkata Dock is also home to a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, bustling marketplaces, and vibrant waterfront promenades. Here, sailors, traders, and dockworkers once mingled amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, their voices blending with the sounds of creaking ships and lapping waves.

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

Today, while much of the Kolkata Dock remains active, parts of it have fallen into disuse and decay, lending an air of nostalgia and melancholy to its surroundings. Abandoned warehouses and crumbling piers stand as reminders of a bygone era.

Kolkata Dockyard is also said to be haunted by a very particular ghost. 

The Deposed King Haunting Kolkata Dockyard

The haunted rumors surrounding the dock have a surprisingly royal host. The Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh was the 11th and last king there. The Kingdom had long been protected by the East Indian Company after the British took over India, before they turned and annexed the kingdom in 1856. 

Wajid Ali Shah: The deposed King, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh is thought to be the one haunting the Kolkata Dockyard.

Wajid Ali Shah (واجد علی شاه) came after relinquishing his throne and Kingdom and wanted to get to London. He was hoping the British would give him refuge and live in comfort for the rest of his days. Arriving at Bichali Ghat not far from Kiddipore by steamboat, little did he know, he would not get any further.

He wanted to plead his case to Queen Victoria, as he believed in the British justice system. Instead, he was imprisoned at Fort William by them during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 as they believed he could be a rallying figure for the sepoys. 

The government had left him there on the banks of the Hooghly river with houses and he spent the rest of his life in Kolkata, building the dock. Heartbroken that he would never return to his beloved homestead in Lucknow.

Many sources claim that Wajid Ali Shah was the one building the dock and that is the reason why he is haunting it to this day. How much involvement the former king really had with the dock is uncertain, although we know he did spend a lot of money on building throughout his exile in Kolkata, although mostly lavish homes for himself in Garden Reach close to the river banks of the Hooghly River west of Kidderpore. 

In fact, Kolkata Dockyard has existed in some form of capacity since the early 16th century when the Portuguese came to Bengal. It was a rather small port until the British East India Company made it to a major center of maritime trade. The wet dock in Kidderpore was put up in 1892 after the merchants in Kolkata demanded it. 

The Ghost of the Nawab Wajid Ali Shah

Now, centuries later, whispers of the Nawab’s restless spirit haunt the Kolkata Dockyard, his spectral form said to wander the shadows in search of vengeance over the British who betrayed him. 

It is said that the Nawab’s ghostly apparition roams Kolkata Dockyard, still bitter of how the British treated him. Witnesses report seeing shadows darting among the abandoned warehouses and decaying piers. The Nawab was fond of Hindustani classical music and dock workers believe haunting notes of music can be heard in the area.

According to the stories, there are also the ghosts of soldiers and sailors who died at the Kolkata Dockyard as well, waiting with him in the afterlife. 

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References:

Port of Kolkata – Wikipedia 

Wajid Ali Shah – Wikipedia 

11 Haunted Places In Kolkata That You Should Not Visit Alone

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The Courtesan Ghost of Golconda Fort

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The Golconda Fort, known for its diamonds and wealth, is also thought to be haunted. It is said that you can still hear the sound of rattling ghunghroos from the ghost of a beautiful dancer and courtesan.

Perched majestically on a hill overlooking Hyderabad, the ancient Golconda Fort, a fortified cited with its ruined city stands as a testament to the grandeur and power of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, reigning from 1518 to 1687. 

Read more: Check out all of the ghost stories from India

However, beneath its historical allure where diamonds like Koh-i-Nor and the Hope diamonds have been stored, lies a darker, more eerie reputation. Golconda Fort is reportedly haunted, with chilling tales of restless spirits, including those of long-dead soldiers and the ghostly specter of Taramati, a famous courtesan of the Qutb Shahi era.

The Start of Golconda Fort: The Kakatiya dynasty was an Indian dynasty that ruled most of eastern Deccan region in present-day India between 12th and 14th centuries. //Source: Photo by Sharath G.

A Fortress Steeped in History

This sprawling citadel built originally as a mud fort in the 11th or 13th century by the Kakatiyas, once the capital of the medieval sultanate ruling Andhra Pradesh, is renowned for its remarkable architecture, intricate gateways, and sprawling courtyards. 

Golconda Fort’s formidable walls have witnessed centuries of history, from royal intrigue and epic battles to the opulence of the Qutb Shahi rulers. The fort had vast diamond mines and in the end the very word Golconda became synonyms with wealth. 

Read more: Check out all of the Haunted Castles around the world

This fortress-city, with its ingeniously designed acoustics and labyrinthine passages, was once a thriving hub of power and culture. The fort’s grandeur, however, is juxtaposed with a haunting presence that pervades its ancient stones.

Ghosts of Fallen Soldiers at Golconda Fort

Among the many legends that haunt Golconda Fort, one of the most enduring is the tale of the ghostly soldiers from the many years the place was used as a fort. These spectral warriors are believed to be the spirits of soldiers who perished during the many battles that took place within and around the fort. Visitors and locals alike have reported seeing shadowy figures patrolling the ramparts, their ghostly forms clad in ancient armor, seemingly guarding the fort even in death.

The eerie silence of the fort at night is often broken by the faint sounds of clashing swords and battle cries, echoing through the empty corridors. Some have even claimed to hear the soft, mournful murmurs of soldiers recounting their last moments. These spine-chilling experiences have cemented Golconda Fort’s reputation as one of the most haunted places in India.

Diamonds: Golconda is renowned for the diamonds found on the south-east at Kollur Mine. At that time, India had the only known diamond mines in the world. Golconda was the market city of the diamond trade. The fortress-city within the walls was famous for diamond trade. // Source: Photo by Pankaj Mishra

The Tragic Tale of Taramati

Perhaps the most poignant and famous ghost story associated with Golconda Fort though is that of Taramati Mandir, one of the most celebrated courtesans of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. She served under the seventh ruler of the kingdom who ruled from 1626 to 1672. 

Courtesan: Portrait of a courtesan, India, Deccan, Golconda from around 1630-50.

Taramati was not only known for her beauty but also for her exceptional talent in Kuchipudi dance and music. She was a beloved figure in the royal court, and her performances were legendary.

Together with her sister Premamati Nritya Mandir they used to perform on a platform called Kala Mandir a kilometer away and in the Baradari for the travelers at the serai, a roadside inn, as the King enjoyed the dance and song from his durbar sitting on top of the fort. 

According to legend, the seventh Sultan Abdullah Qutb Shah, the ruler of Golconda was deeply in love with Taramati. He was a lover of poetry and music and fell in love with her as he heard her sing. 

Their love story, however, was doomed by the turbulent times and political upheaval and his ruling time was full of sorrows and trouble. We don’t really know much about Taramati’s feelings of this, but it does look like she was highly treasured.

The Tomb of Qutb Shahi

It is also said that the tomb of Qutb Shahi is where they buried Taramati and her sister together with her master as well as his queen around a kilometer away from the fort. They are among the few tombs that are not of royalty.

The southern entrance of the tomb complex was walled in fear of ghosts and goblins. Question is, to keep them out or to keep something in?

The Ghost of Taramati Baradari

Some versions of the tale suggest that Taramati met a tragic end, while others believe that she continued to live a life of sorrow after being separated from her beloved King. Details of her life is sparse, and mostly connected to the romantic fables about her being the love her Kings life.

Today, visitors to Golconda Fort often report hearing the unmistakable sound of ghunghroos (traditional anklet bells worn by dancers) echoing through the night after the fort is closed. This is said to happen around the baradari where she used to dance and sing especially.

These spectral sounds are believed to be the ghostly remnants of Taramati’s performances, a haunting reminder of a love and life that were lost to history.

Paranormal Encounters and Haunting Experiences

Over the years, numerous accounts of paranormal encounters at Golconda Fort have emerged. Tourists, night guards, and paranormal enthusiasts have all reported strange occurrences. 

Some staying at the fort after closing time claim to have seen the paintings on the walls turn upside down by themselves. 

Perhaps the worst is how people have reported about utensils being thrown at them and up against the walls in the Kabootarkhana or a feeling of a sharp pain coming out of nowhere.

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References:

Taramati Baradari – Wikipedia 

Golconda – Wikipedia 

Ghosts, goblins, gateways and Golconda – The Hindu 

Haunted Places In Hyderabad | Hyderabad Tales The Most Haunted Places Of The City | Times of India Travel 

10 Haunted Places In Hyderabad With Real Ghost Stories For Spooky Trips In 2024 

Haunted India: Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

Abdullah Qutb Shah – Wikipedia 

Taramati Baradari – A Symbol of Musical Love – Savaari Car Rentals Blog