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The Haunting of Mumbai’s Tower of Silence

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The sky burial method by the Tower of Silence for the Zoroastrian in Mumbai has been up for debate after the vulture population started to decline. There has also been a rise of haunted horror stories in later years circulating online, but just what is supposed to haunt the ancient burial place?

Right by the exclusive neighborhood of Malabar Hill in Mumbai lies a centuries-old structure shrouded in mystery and macabre legend – the Tower of Silence. This imposing structure deep in the 54-acre forest has long been associated with the Parsi community’s unique funeral customs, which involve leaving the dead on the tower’s rooftop to be devoured by vultures. 

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

However, reports of strange sightings and eerie happenings surrounding the Tower have sparked widespread speculation about the supernatural. Some say that the spirits of the departed are haunting the Tower, while others believe that darker forces may be at play. Is there something behind these rumors, or are they only fancy tales about a dwindling minority?

History and significance of the Tower of Silence in Mumbai

The Tower of Silence is a circular structure located in Mumbai’s Malabar Hill area. This particular tower was built in 1672 by Seth Moti Hirji and the Parsi community who practice the Zoroastrian religion and is not meant for outsiders to come and see, but for the community to bury their own. 

Read more: Check out more ghost stories from cemeteries around the world

The Tower is a significant part of the Parsi community’s funeral customs that date back 3000 years, which involve the disposal of the dead in a sky burial. The concept of the towers are as old as 900 years. The Parsi religion believes that the body is impure after death and should not be buried or cremated. Instead, the dead are taken to the Tower of Silence, where they are left on the rooftop to be consumed by vultures.

The Zoroastrian religion and its beliefs around death

The Parsi community is an ethnic and religious minority in India that came to India around the 8th or 10th century AD after escaping from the rise of the Islamic Empire. In 1941 there were around 114 000 of them in India, but today, they estimate around 50 000. This does have something to do with 40 % of Parsi marrying outsiders, but you are only considered Parsi if you have a Parsi father. The women are often ostracized if they marry outside of their community. 

The Parsi follow the Zoroastrian religion, which originated in ancient Persia and is one of the world’s oldest faiths that possibly dates back to the 2000 BCE. The Zoroastrian religion has a unique view on death and the afterlife compared to most religions. This comes from the prophet Zarathushtra that believed that the soul is immortal and will eventually reunite with its creator. 

The Faravahar: also known as the Foruhar or the Farre Kiyâni, is a well-known symbol of Zoroastrianism. There are different interpretations of what the Faravahar represents, and there is no definite agreement on its meaning. However, it is commonly believed that the Faravahar is a Zoroastrian depiction of the fravashi, or personal spirit. The Faravahar is widely recognized in Iran and is often worn as a pendant. Although it has religious origins, it has also become a secular and cultural symbol for Iranians.

However, the body is considered Nasu which means impure after death and should not be buried or cremated. Instead, it should be left to decompose naturally. Not only was there the danger of spreading diseases, but it was also believed that corpses would attract evil spirits to possess them, also known as the Nasu Daeva, the body demon that infects the bodies. 

The Parsi community’s funeral customs involve taking the body of the deceased to the Tower of Silence, where it is left on the rooftop to be consumed by vultures. This funeral process is known as “dokhmenashini,” which means “to place the body in the Tower of Silence.”  and the towers themselves, called The Dakhma, originated in ancient Persia around 900 AD.

The process of disposing of the dead at the Tower of Silence

The process of disposing of the dead at the Tower of Silence is a unique and complex one. When a Parsi person dies, the body is taken to the Tower of Silence and placed on the rooftop in the dakhma, which is the funerary tower. The rooftop has three concentric circles, each with a specific purpose. The outer circle is for men, the middle circle is for women, and the inner circle is for children.

The Tower of Silence in Mumbai: A late 19th century engraving of a Zoroastrian Tower of Silence in Mumbai. Engraving from 1886 book “True Stories of the Reign of Queen Victoria” by Cornelius Brown.

Along with placing the body in the Tower of Silence, they recite the Vendidad which is a religious chant against the demons. 

Once the body is placed on the rooftop, it is left to decompose naturally. The vultures consume the body, leaving only the bones behind in a matter of days. The bones are then collected and placed in an ossuary, which is a receptacle for human bones.

Controversies and debates around the Tower of Silence

The Tower of Silence has been a subject of controversy and debate for many years. Some people believe that the Parsi community’s funeral customs are inhumane and should be abolished. They argue that the Tower of Silence is a health hazard and a breeding ground for diseases, especially after Mumbai’s urban growth closing in on the once isolated sky burial sites. In Iran, they were banned in the 1970s after urbanization declared it a health hazard. 

There was also the case of a shortage of vultures in India that made the burial method a controversy. After the drug Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory medicine was introduced to livestock in the 1990s, it killed off 95 % of the birds as it was toxic for them to feed on the carcasses. It was banned in 2006, but the damage was already done.

On the other hand, the Parsi community argues that their funeral customs are an essential part of their identity and cultural heritage, although many Parsi have started to use cremation or burial instead, especially during Covid when the Tower of Silence was closed. 

Entry Forbidden: An old photograph of the Dakhma from around ca. 1880 – ca. 1890. Today it is found inside of a dense forest and is off limit to outsiders.

They believe that the Tower of Silence is the most natural and respectful way to dispose of the dead. But when a woman named Dhun Baria took pictures of the piled up corpses in the dakhmas, they saw for themselves that their ancient way of purification didn’t work as it should after the vulture shortage. The rumors about the delayed decomposing of the corpses and a smell coming from the forest, although not confirmed, took hold over the narrative of the ancient tradition. 

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve and renovate the Tower of Silence, trying new and modern ways of decomposing. Like how they use solar power to speed up the process and work toward vulture conservation. The Parsi community has been working with the government and other organizations to ensure that the Tower is properly maintained and preserved for future generations.

Theories and speculations surrounding the macabre mystery

Now, perhaps this ancient and mysterious and different practice of disposing of the dead is what makes the place sound a little eerie and makes people question if there is something going on there. Perhaps it is the dwindling population that is leaving the Zoroastrian ways behind in the modern world that makes it all seem a bit out of place in modern Mumbai?

Or perhaps it is even the controversies and the difficulty the community had of disposing and honoring the dead after the vultures almost died out? Perhaps it is what the prophet said that the corpses are more vulnerable to attracting evil spirits and that is what is happening surrounding the legends and folklore of this cemetery?

There have been numerous reports of strange sightings and eerie happenings around the Tower of Silence. Some people have reported seeing apparitions of the deceased, while others have reported hearing strange sounds and voices. There have also been reports of unexplained movements and objects moving on their own.

The Tower of Silence’s Future

The Tower of Silence is a unique and fascinating structure with a rich history and cultural significance. It is a testament to the Parsi community’s unique customs and beliefs, which have been passed down through generations. Despite the controversy and speculation surrounding the Tower, it remains an essential part of the Parsi community’s identity and a significant landmark in Mumbai. 

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References:

Tower of Silence: The Vanishing Practice of Zoroastrian Sky Burial | Parsi Khabar 

Why India’s Parsi Population Is Shrinking Dramatically – The New York Times 

This is what you should know about the haunted ‘Tower of Silence’ in Mumbai..! 

Death in the city: How a lack of vultures threatens Mumbai’s ‘Towers of Silence’ | Cities | The Guardian 

Behind the Scenes of Bollywood’s Favorite Haunted Location: Mukesh Mills

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In an old textile mill, the Bollywood film crews moved into the Mukesh Mills after a devastating fire closed it down. But soon, stories from those filming movies there started telling haunted stories, and how actresses were possessed by something that warned them about staying in the mills. 

Bollywood has always had a fascination with the supernatural and the paranormal. And when it comes to haunted locations, there’s one place that has captured the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike. Located in the heart of Mumbai, Mukesh Mills has been the setting for some of Bollywood’s most iconic horror movies. But what’s the story behind this eerie location? What makes it so appealing to filmmakers? And is there any truth to the rumors of paranormal activity? 

History of Mukesh Mills

The Mills of Girangaon, integral to Mumbai’s economy during British colonial times when the city was dubbed the “Manchester of the East,” saw a steady decline as newer industries emerged in the area. In the 19th century, India exported and reimported cotton, but escalating costs led to the founding of the Indian cotton industry, with the first mill, “The Bombay Spinning Mill,” established in 1854.

Initially, Indian entrepreneurs led this industry, facing opposition from Lancashire mill owners, which was later offset by British textile machinery manufacturers’ support. These mills were mainly owned and managed by Indians, with initial investments from mill owners’ families and later, public shares. 

Muljibhai Madhvani, the Owner of East African Hardware Ltd., had established a large factory in Bombay. Some say it was the East India Company that set it up in 1870s. It was known as Mukesh Textile Mills. Mukesh Mills, situated in Colaba, Mumbai, was originally known as the Colaba Mill and was established in the late 1800s or early 1900s as the sole mill in South Bombay, strategically located by the sea. 

Initially, it was prosperous, contributing to the cotton export trade between Bombay and Britain. Unfortunately, labor disputes, the 1929 Bombay Mill Workers’ Strike, outsourcing to Japan and the aftermath of World War II caused a decline in the mills, with Mukesh Mills shutting down in 2000.

The Fire of Mukesh Mills

The mill was renovated in 1975, but it wasn’t long before tragedy struck. Mukesh Mills faced a tragic event when a devastating fire in 1982 led to the deaths of numerous workers and the mill’s abandonment. Just how many workers is unclear. Some sites even stated around a thousand, but the claims are unsubstantiated. 

The owners of the mill had applied for closure, but were denied it by the government. On the 18th of January that year they closed it after a year long strike of the mill. A few months later though the fire broke out with devastating consequences. 

After the mill was shut down, the property was left abandoned for many years and they never found the exact cause of the fire. The decaying buildings and overgrown vegetation gave the place an eerie and haunted look, which caught the attention of filmmakers. In the years that followed, Mukesh Mills became a popular location for Bollywood movies, especially horror flicks.

Mukesh Mills in Bollywood

Mukesh Mills has been the setting for some of Bollywood’s most iconic horror movies. From the classic “Mahal” starring Madhubala to the contemporary hit “Raaz” starring Bipasha Basu, the mill has been a favorite haunt of filmmakers, especially in the 1990s. Its dilapidated buildings, overgrown vegetation, and abandoned machinery provide the perfect backdrop for horror movies.

Mukesh Hill: Now the place is mainly used as a movie set for Bollywood productions or as a place that attracts paranormal seekers. //Source: Flickr

Apart from horror movies, Mukesh Mills has also been used in other Bollywood movies such as “Salaam-e-Ishq” and “Talaash.” The mill’s unique look and feel have made it a favorite location for filmmakers who want to add a touch of mystery and intrigue to their movies.

Haunted stories and legends associated with Mukesh Mills

Over the years, Mukesh Mills has gained a reputation for being haunted. There are many stories and legends associated with the mill, which have only added to its allure. One watchman once claimed to have heard music and voices coming from the mill, but there was no one there that day. When he saw someone smoking, he didn’t dare to enter it in case he would come face to face with a malevolent ghost. Most of these stories come from the film crews and actresses that have been at the place to shoot.

Haunted Bollywood: The movie Footpath is said to be one of the movies were they experienced something supernatural on set.

According to these stories there was one actress’s voice that suddenly changed, grew hoarse and manly and she started shouting to the crew members and warning them that they had to stay away from the mill. The director thought she had to be possessed by an evil spirit and the entire crew got out of there fast. 

In 2003, the actress Bipasha Basu was shooting a scene for her film Footpath. She felt like something was hindering her when she tried to walk over the room and say her lines. They performed a puja, a hindu prayer, to ward off the evil spirits. But it didn’t seem to work as they shot the scene at another location instead.

There is also a story of a child actor being possessed by something when shooting a scene. The child started to act strange and rolled on the ground with her hands behind her back. And although the possession lasted only a couple of seconds, the fear of those that witnessed it lasted for much longer. It is said that all the company present started crying and screaming, but the father of the child assured that she would return to normal as soon as they were far away from the mills. 

But what spirits are haunting this place? According to some people, the mill is haunted by the ghosts of the workers who died in accidents or due to poor working conditions. Some say it is a man that is now a restless spirit. 

The Lingering Ghosts at Mukesh Mills

Mukesh Mills is a hauntingly beautiful location that has captured the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike, although from 2019, the location was shut down because the building’s structure was too weak and unsafe. Its dilapidated buildings, overgrown vegetation, and abandoned machinery provide the perfect backdrop for horror movies and photographs. But beyond its spooky reputation, Mukesh Mills is also a testament to Mumbai’s rich industrial history and a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. 

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References:

Feature Image: Flickr

Bollywood’s favourite Mukesh Mills shut for shoots; corporator Makarand Narwekar terms BMC’s action mala fide

Bollywood’s favourite Mukesh Mills shut for shoots; corporator Makarand Narwekar terms BMC’s action mala fide 

https://mysteriesrunsolved.com/haunted-mukesh-mills-mumbai/

Horror Tales of Mukesh Mills, Mumbai – Tripoto 

(The Almost Complete) History of Mukesh Mills 

What really haunts Mumbai’s Mukesh Mills? | Condé Nast Traveller India 

The Terrifying Legend of Terra Vera: Bangalore’s Most Haunted House

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After the brutal murder on a 75 year old, it is said she is still haunting her old house. Terra Vera is called the most haunted house in Bangalore, and it is said that piano music could be heard as well as a face staring back through the window of the abandoned building. 

Bangalore, often referred to as the “Garden City of India,” is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture, stunning gardens, and technological prowess. However, amid the city’s modernity and urban charm, there lies a sinister secret that has intrigued and frightened both locals and visitors alike. This secret is the Terra Vera House, an enigmatic and allegedly haunted place that has gained notoriety as one of the scariest spots in the city.

The Murder on St. Mark’s Road

In the early morning hours on 4th of September in 2002, a gruesome murder was committed. On that wednesday a 75 year old woman that lived in her house was stabbed to death. The woman was Dolce Vaaz and she lived there with her 80 year old sister, Vera who saw the whole thing. 

Just past midnight Vera had gone to sleep when she was woken up by the sound of her sister that was screaming for help. The sister could do nothing but scream as the murderer fled the crime scene. 

When she went into her sister’s room she saw her sister struggling with multiple stab wounds on her stomach, neck and hands and Vera cried out “Dolce, you are still warm. Get up…” But it was too late and Dolce was dead before she reached the hospital. 

During the police investigation the police suspected it had to be the thief that had broken into their home six months ago, but the culprit was never found. They also said that there was a motive that had to do with the property and the house the women lived in. It was the last residential house on the street next to Haji’s petrol pump and was even then in a sorry state. 

The Chilling History

The spine-chilling tale of Terra Vera House can be traced back to the year 2002, but its origins reach much deeper into the past. The colonial-style house, nestled on St. Marks Road in Bangalore, was constructed in 1943 or 1934 by some sources by its owner, EJ Vaj who was an advocate of the Bombay High Court. Vaj had two daughters, Dolce and Vera, and it was their lives that became entwined with the house’s dark history.

He left the house to his two spinster daughters who were both spinsters. Dolce was a piano teacher while Vera was an English tutor. 

Following the tragic murder of her sister, Vera left the house due to a property dispute or at least moved to a place deemed safer, abandoning not only the property itself but also a trove of valuable possessions, including a vintage car and furniture. Vera had accused her married youngest sister and some of her relatives that they tried to drive her off her property. She eventually moved out though and some say she went to Australia. The house was left to decay for the next 12 years, and as time passed, it gained a sinister reputation.

The Haunting of Terra Vera

Locals and brave explorers who dared to venture near Terra Vera have reported chilling encounters. Over time, there have also been some added stories to the brutal real murder, such that Dolce was buried on the premises by the murderer.

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

Strange occurrences, such as sightings of inverted crosses and eerie, unexplained sounds and horrified screams coming from within that have fueled rumors of malevolent spirits haunting the house. 

People have also claimed to have heard piano music coming from the house although it is completely dark and abandoned. 

The Demise of Terra Vera House

As the stories of Terra Vera’s haunting persisted, it became a magnet for thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts. Ultimately, the house was demolished in 2014, but the enigma did not end there. It is also said that dozens of hindu priests had come by and performed Homa, a fire ritual, to chase the evil spirits away. But did they manage it?

Even after the physical structure was gone, eerie sightings and unsettling experiences continued to be reported on the land where the house once stood.

It is uncertain who the old house went to after the two sisters died, and when the workers that demolished the house were asked about who the owners were, they didn’t know and had only been given the order to tear the house down.

A Haunting Legacy

The Terra Vera House, with its tragic history and ghostly tales, remains etched in the annals of Bangalore’s paranormal lore. While skeptics may dismiss the stories as mere superstition, the undeniable presence of eerie phenomena and the lingering fear associated with the house continue to captivate the imaginations of those who dare to delve into its dark past.

In a city known for its rapid progress and technological advancements, Terra Vera House serves as a haunting reminder that the past, with all its mysteries and tragedies, is never too far behind. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, the enigmatic aura of Terra Vera House is a testament to the enduring power of stories that transcend time and place, reminding us that some mysteries are destined to remain unsolved.

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References:

Vera Vaz stands strong despite tragedy | Bengaluru News – Times of India 

Terra Vera on St. Mark’s Road, Bangalore 

Ghostbusted… @Rs 20 crore? 

Elderly woman murdered on St Mark’s Road | Bengaluru News – Times of India 

The Haunting of GP Block in Meerut

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The GP Block in Meerut has been abandoned for decades now. Ever since then, people passing by have claimed to have seen something they think must be ghosts. Who are the women in the red sari lingering on the roof?

In Meerut lies a street that has become infamous for its paranormal activity. GP Block, as it is known, is the site of numerous ghostly encounters, unexplainable sightings, and spine-chilling experiences. Many locals claim that the area is haunted by the spirits of those who met a tragic end, and that their restless souls still linger in the dark corners of the block. 

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

Although Meerut is one of the fastest developing cities in India, it seems like the GP Block is the exception. There are especially three buildings that have been abandoned for decades now in the very old city of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh. The place used to be a nice area in the city, but now people are frightened of going there. They are owned by the Indian defense forces, but left it to decay in the late 1950s or even as far back as the 1930s.

The Haunted GP Block: Today the GP Block in Meerut, India has been left to decay for decades. During this time it has developed a haunted reputation. // Source

Even though there were hired caretakers in 2014, they misuse their position and rented the rooms out for seedy activity like to gamblers and couples for a few hours. When the caretakers were fired after they found out what went on in the buildings, they installed a big iron gate at the entrance. Is it this that people have seen when claiming to have met a ghost? Or could this be something else, perhaps something paranormal?

Haunted Stories of GP Block

There are many stories about who is haunting the buildings and the locals think that the buildings are haunted by evil spirits where they sit in isolated places that are now covered with wild plants. These are some of the more told ones. 

One of the most popular stories is that of a ghostly woman who is seen sitting on the roof of the building. People claim different things. Some say she is a woman wearing a red sari combing her hair on the roof. Some say they have seen her drift in and out of the building. 

Another ghost frequently reported on is different women wearing red clothes around the building. Could this be the same thing that people have seen on the roof? Perhaps it is just a rumor that turned out to be something more kind of thing?

There are also those that claim to have seen four men drinking beer either inside of the abandoned building or on top of the roof with a single lit candle on the table. 

Is GP Block Really Haunted?

Although there aren’t many details to the hauntings, they are plentiful and the stories of ghosts and hauntings have spread far and wide, attracting curious visitors from all over the country to try and have a look for themselves, although most of them are turned away at the gate.

However, despite the many stories and investigations, there has been no concrete evidence of paranormal activity in GP Block. While some people believe that the area is haunted, others believe that it’s nothing more than a legend and remains of the illegal stuff that went on for a period under the caretaker’s reign.

Regardless of whether GP Block is really haunted or not, one thing is for sure – the legend of the Haunting of GP Block will continue to fascinate and terrify those who dare to venture into its eerie depths.

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References:

Haunted House: जंगल के बीच में है भूतिया बंगला जहां लाल साड़ी में घूमती है चुड़ैल, जाने की है हिम्मत? | Hindi News, Uttar Pradesh 

Meerut ‘haunted houses’ pain for board 

When visiting Meerut, go to GP Block at your own risk | Times of India Travel 

Inside the Haunted Tunnel No. 33 of the Kalka-Shimla Railway Line

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Inside of an abandoned Tunnel of the Kalka-Shimla Railway Line in Himachal Pradesh in India it is said the ghost of the engineer that built it is haunting it. But what exactly happened to the ill fated Tunnel No. 33 and the other haunted tunnels on these tracks?

Shimla was considered the summer place for the British and became the official summer capital in 1864 and also known as Queen of the Hills. It is the biggest city in the Himachal Pradesh Province and is in the Western Himalayas

This is why they needed a railway as the entire government and military had to move back and to Calcutta twice a year. 

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

The Kalka Shimla Railway was built in the late 19th century by the British government to connect Kalka to Shimla at the foot of the Himalayas. Known for its breathtaking mountain views it also has a couple of ghost stories going on along the track. 

Source

The Haunted History of Tunnel No. 33

One of the tunnels the line passes through is called the Barog Tunnel and is named after Colonel Barog who was in charge of construction  and is known as the straightest tunnel in the world. This is also the longest tunnel of 1143.61 meters long and is located at an altitude of 1565 meters above sea level. It will take around two minutes by train going at 25 kilometers per hour to ride through it before reaching Barog station on the other side.

In 1898, Colonel Barog was put in charge of building the tunnel. He was an English railway engineer and given a strict deadline. 

The legend surrounding Tunnel No. 33 is that Colonel Barog was tasked with constructing the tunnel but failed to complete it within the given time frame. To meet the deadline, he instructed the workers to dig from both sides and to meet in the middle. But because of his miscalculation the project failed. 

Tunnel No. 33: According to the stories, it is this tunnell said to harbour dark and ghostly secrets within on the Kalka-Shimla Railway Line. //Source: Sanoop/Flickr

As a result, he was fined a Rupee and humiliated in front of his peers. This was a lot to be fined for a construction worker at the time, and unable to bear the shame, he committed suicide close to what is now the Barog Pine Wood Hotel. It was also said he had struggled with depression already before this. According to the stories, he was out for a walk together with his dog when he shot himself.

After his death another engineer named HS Herlington completed the Tunnel No. 33 a kilometer away from the original spot together with an Indian diviner named Baba Bhalku.

The Paranormal Activity in Tunnel No. 33

Some have reported hearing disembodied voices, feeling a cold breeze, and seeing apparitions. Others have reported feeling a sense of unease and discomfort while inside the tunnel.

It is said that the locals see him frequently inside and around the tunnel, often on horse. He is known to be a talkative ghost that answers people’s questions and keeps conversations going with those that meet him. 

Now the tunnel has been closed, but activity seems to keep happening around it. Even though the government has put a lock on the tunnel several times to keep people out, people keep finding ways in, or perhaps something just needs a way out?

The Other Haunted Tunnels of the Kalka-Shimla Railway Line

Although the story of Tunnel No. 33 is the most told about, it is not the only place on the tracks thought to be haunted. 

There are also stories about Tunnel No. 46 and 103. Mostly they talk about Tunnel No. 103, otherwise known as the Inveram Tunnel, and that it is haunted by a British ghost that likes to speak with travelers. It is worth nothing that many of the stories get mixed up with the story of Colonel Barog and Tunnel No. 33. Tunnel 103 is the last tunnel on the way toward Shimla

There are also stories about the spirit of a woman moving through the walls of the Tunnel No. 33 and giving off horrifying screams. She is also said to be wearing a black sari as she is carrying a malnourished baby. 

The Truth Behind the Legends

But what about these legends about Tunnel No. 33 and the rest of the supposedly haunted tunnels are actually true? What we find when digging a bit deeper is that the Barog tunnel was called so even before 1899 as an article from the Bombay Gazette on August 14th in 1899 said, and the Construction of the Kalka Simla line didn’t start until Summer of 1900. 

“A detailed and final reconnaissance for the Simla-Kalka railway has now been completed by Mr Harrington (the chief engineer)….The proposed alignment will necessitate the construction of three important tunnels, viz. Koti spur…Barogh…and Tara Devi.”

The fact that we don’t even know Colonel Barogs first name as well as there is no mention of his death in a matter that was written so much about in the papers seems suspicious. There is also no mention of him on the project plan. Did he even exist?

Even the help from the Indian diviner is to the engineer that completed the tunnel is not mentioned with a word in the papers throughout the construction. Could they really have missed such a good story, or are most of the stories known around this construction just this? Just stories? 

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References:

Volvo Car India drives forth the sustainability and climate impact dialogue with its #PoweringLife initiative 

Tunnels & Bridges – the Kalka Shimla Railway — Google Arts & Culture 

https://mysterioushimachal.wordpress.com/tag/the-ghost-of-tunnel-103/

India’s Most Haunted: Tunnel No 33 or Barog Tunnel in Shimla | India.com 

The Ghost of Tunnel 33 Barog Tunnel(Tunnel No. 33)- Facts, History and Stories – Tripoto

Haunted Screams from Khairatabad Science College

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Forgotten in Hyderabad city in India there is the remains of the Khairatabad Science College. After several mysterious deaths, the abandoned building is thought to be haunted by the forgotten bodies in the biology lab. 

With a history dating back to the early 1900s, the now closed down Khairatabad Science College has been the site of countless ghostly encounters and spooky legends. The building is now abandoned and can be found on the main road close to the Khairatabad flyover. 

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

Not much details about its closing remains. What year and exactly why is disputed and often omitted when telling about it. According to legend though, it closed down after a part of the building collapsed and people just got up and left everything. Including the dead bodies in the biology laps that legends say the students did different testings on. 

The Guards that Never Returned

After Khairatabad Science College closed down, the government was afraid of the abandoned building being used by thieves and drug addicts, so they employed two guards to keep them out.

According to the guards, they heard strange sounds coming from the college that no one could explain. There wasn’t supposed to be anyone inside of it, but according to the legends, there was something dark that resided inside of its walls. On one particular day they heard the screams of a baby, sounding like it was in danger and they had to investigate. 

Guarding a haunted building: A haunted abandoned school can’t be the easiest place to patrol as a security guard on night duty. According to one legend about the Khairatabad Science College, some of the guards got to meet the wrath of the spirits supposedly haunting the abandoned college.

One of the guards went on an inspection in the building to investigate the strange sounds coming from the haunted school but never returned. 

When the police got involved, they found the missing guard dead in the building, although the cause of death was never uncovered. Only a look of fear was left in his dead eyes, but what happened with him no one could find out. However, the police started to find more dead bodies over the years. That is when the rumors about if you walked into the building, you wouldn’t get out alive. 

Skeleton and Shouting from Khairatabad Science College

There are also those claiming to have seen walking skeletons when passing by the Khairatabad Science College. In the dark night, their rattling white bones can be seen wandering the grounds. Some claim that it is the spirits of the sinister things that were left inside of the abandoned building.

There are also those claiming to hear shouting coming from within the haunted school as well. Could it be teenagers breaking in as a prank? Or could it really be the ghosts supposedly haunting the premise? Those thinking there are ghost in the building believe that when the college closed down, they were unable to get rid of all of the bodies, and they are now haunting the premise. 

Is Khairatabad Science College really haunted?

Whether the stories are true or not, there is no denying that Khairatabad Science College has a rich history of spooky legends and ghostly encounters that continue to terrify the people walking past the abandoned school at night. The future of the building is as of yet unsure and the spirits can rest in peace it seems for now. So if you dare walk into the building, will you be able to get out as well?

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বন্ধ হয়ে যাওয়া এই কলেজের ল্যাবে হেঁটে বেড়ায় কারা? 

Khairatabad Science College – Where Ghost Study Science

The Djinns of Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb in Mehrauli

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Djinns are said to haunt the Mehrauli park in Delhi, and around the mysterious mosque and tomb of Jamali Kamali, there are said to be strange hauntings going on. Who are the Djinns said to roam around the Jamali Kamali Mosque, and what do they want?

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Mehrauli Archaeological Park in Delhi, the Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb has been shrouded in mystery and intrigue for centuries. The hauntingly beautiful mosque and tomb were built in the 16th century by the Sufi saint Jamali, who was believed to have miraculous powers. 

History of Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb

Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb in Mehrauli, Delhi, is a historic complex that dates back to the 16th century in what has been known as “The City of Djinns”. Delhi is believed to be home to many Djinns, who reside in the city’s ancient buildings, tombs, and ruins. The complex was built by the Sufi saint Jamali in 1528-1529, who was a traveling poet known for his Persian spiritual teachings and miraculous powers in the Lodi Dynasty. 

The City of Djinns: Arches of Jamali Kamali Mosque, Mehrauli, Delhi.// Source: Abhishek Khanna/ Wikimedia

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

Jamali or Shaikh Fazlu’llah was a disciple of the famous Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya and is believed to have been a contemporary of Mughal emperor Akbar. 

The complex consists of a mosque, a tomb, and a courtyard, and was built during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

The mosque and tomb are built in the traditional Indo-Islamic architectural style and are adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful calligraphy. The mosque has a central dome and two minarets, while the tomb is a square-shaped structure with a flat roof. The courtyard is surrounded by arched colonnades and is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Mehrauli.

After Jamali died in 1535, he was buried in the tomb. 

Kamali that is buried in the tomb with him was an unknown person. We know he was male because of the symbolic pen box on his grave and that he was one of Jamali’s disciples. Historians are unsure about their relationship and have called Kamali both his brother, wife or companion. Because of how their graves are places, it also implies that they were lovers. 

Legends and Myths Associated with Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb

Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb has been shrouded in mystery and intrigue for centuries. The complex is said to be haunted by the spirits of Jamali and Kamali, who are believed to have supernatural powers. There are many legends and myths associated with the complex, which add to its enigmatic appeal.

Read also: Check out Khonsuemheb and the Ghost of Theban Necropolis or The Haunted Tomb of General Yuan for more ghost stories about haunted tombs.

One of the most popular legends associated with Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb is that it was the site of a love affair between Jamali and Kamali, something that the placements of the graves have suggested. 

Haunted Stories of Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb

Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb is said to be one of the most haunted places in Delhi. Many people have reported paranormal activity in the complex, including sightings of ghosts or Djinns.

People have claimed to have seen strange lights and shadows in the tomb and heard something that sounds like an animal growling at them or laughing voices. 

There is also a feeling of someone standing right next to them, or thinking that someone is looking at them behind the pillars, but when going to investigate, there is nothing there. 

Mehrauli Park: By daylight i is a nice and green park to spend time in. When darkness falls however, it is said that Djinns are haunting the park and especially the Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb seen in he background. // Source: Varun Shiv Kapur/Flickr

Perhaps worst is it for those that have felt an unknown force slapping them that leaves tiny hand marks on their faces for days. This is said to happen especially during the night when the park is supposed to be locked and no one is supposed to be there. 

Who is to say who is right, as people claim that what they have heard is real, while others say the stories are just made up. 

A story told through Vice claims that a woman was in the park after dark, when she felt something sinister coming after her. The following six months she woke up 3 in the morning every night and saw a hand on the glass of the ventilator placed above the door to her balcony. 

This experience took a toll on her mental health until she left her job and moved to another city when the episodes stopped. Whether this was because she changed her life or because she managed to shake the djinns off, who is to say?

The Enduring Legacy of Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb

Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb is a fascinating and enigmatic landmark that has captured the imagination of people for centuries. Is it Jamali who is still haunting his own tomb? Could it be Kamali, whose name is just something given to locals as it rhymed with Jamali. What were they really to each other? A teacher and student? Lovers? Today there are more rumors than answers.

While the complex is said to be haunted, it is also a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city and is a popular tourist attraction. But just to be safe, it is said you should get out of the park when you hear the call to evening prayer, The maghrib adhan, before dark, so you don’t bring any djinns with you home. 

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References:

Featured Image: Anupamg / Wikimedia

What Happened When I Spent a Night at a Haunted Place 

Jamali Kamali The Haunted Mosque of Delhi – BikingMystery 

Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb Delhi – History & Haunted Story – Adotrip 

The story of Delhi’s Jamali Kamali mosque and why people think it’s haunted | Times of India Travel 

Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb – Wikipedia

Nale Ba – The Bridal Ghost of Bangalore

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In the 90s, rural parts of Bangalore in India were haunted by a fear of a ghost walking from door to door. To protect themselves from death, they used to write Nale Ba – come tomorrow. 

The sound of a knock on the door can be one of the more terrifying things when you are not expecting someone. In lores and legends, opening the doors for strangers are the biggest mistakes you can make, as you have no control once the door is open.

But what if the voice on the other side sounds familiar, like that of a friend or a family member. What do you do then? Before the big urbanization of Bangalore in more recent times, there used to be some pretty rural parts where a particular urban legend struck fear in those who lived there. 

Nale Ba or Come Tomorrow

Haunting the streets: The movie Stree’s take on the legend showed the ghost of the Nale Ba legend as a ghostly woman in red sari.

The story of Nale Ba is a popular folk legend that is told primarily in Karnataka, in the south western region of India that truly blew up in the 1990s, making it perhaps more of an urban legend than folklore as it was centered around the more developed areas.

During the crazy times in the 1990’s there were around 5 million people living in Bangalore and city experienced a rapid urbanization that turned the place to one of India’s most populated cities.

But this was then and many of those living there lived in fear of Nale Ba. Villagers wrote the words Nale Ba on the walls and doors for many years to protect themselves, giving the name to both the legend and the creature haunting them. Nale Ba or sometimes spelled Naale Baa (ನಾಳೆ ಬಾ) is a Kannada phrase that means come tomorrow in English. 

They wrote this exact phrase to protect their home from an evil spirit that tries to break in. What type of entity Nale Ba was supposed to be, was unclear. She was often referred to a so called Bridal Spirit as she was out to get a man to stay with her for eternity. She is also sometimes also referred to as a witch more than a ghost.

What her intentions were varied, but in some of the earlier versions she wore ragged clothes, had messy hair and asked for alms like a classic ‘do not open the doors to strangers’ legend.

But one of the more popular and retold stories is that she is roaming the streets hunting down the men to claim for herself. 

The Manhunt of the Bridal Ghost

In some variations of the Nale Ba legend it is a bridal ghost that is looking for a husband among the villagers, and she will stop at nothing to get him. Although the legend will probably never be as infamous as it’s peak in the 1990s, the urban legend have a habit of popping up from time to time.

What is also curious is that it is very similar to the widow ghost legend in Thailand where there also is a female entity hunting down the men:

The bridal spirit will usually go for the only son or the man of the house who is the only member of the family earning money, and therefore bringing bad luck not only to the poor man that is taken away, but to the entire family as they are left in ruin. 

Nale Ba: According to this legend there is a bridal ghost that goes from door to door in Bangalore in search of a man she can take with her to the afterlife.

She goes from door to door in the night and knocks on the doors, trying to get in. When she speaks through the door she speaks in the voice of your kin or familiar person, calling you by the name, so that you will open the door for her. But if you open it, you will most likely die according to the Nale Ba legend. 

This is why the villagers came up with the idea of writing Nale Ba on their doors and walls of their homes to protect themselves. The idea is that the bridal ghost or witch will read the words and come back another time. And the cycle will only continue and you will be protected. 

Leaving Nale Ba in the Past

The legend of Nale Ba, the haunting bridal ghost roaming the streets of rural Bangalore, continues to captivate the imaginations of locals and visitors alike. While the fear it once instilled may have subsided, the tale remains an intriguing part of the city’s folklore.

Over time, as Bangalore underwent urbanization and transformation into a bustling metropolis, the legend of Nale Ba gradually faded into the background. The growth and development of the city brought about new stories and urban myths, yet every now and then, a whisper of the infamous bridal ghost resurfaces.

In today’s modern era, the streets of Bangalore are abuzz with the sounds of progress and innovation, leaving behind the ghostly echoes of its past. Yet, hidden beneath the surface, the essence of these legends lingers, shaping a city that embraces its rich heritage while moving fearlessly towards the future.

So, next time you hear a knock on your door late at night, remember the spirit of Nale Ba and the importance of remaining vigilant. And should you ever encounter the whispers of an ancient legend, embrace it as a testament to the vibrant history and enduring spirit of the city of Bangalore.

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