Darjeeling developed under the British administration but its history predates the British settlement. People have offered prayers to trees, streams, rocks and caves which dot the countryside. The bright flags, splashes of colour, food and incense are tokens of acceptance to spirits which guide the believer.
Our colonial rulers went a step further and built huge edifices for their worship. Beautiful churches are found in each and every town. Alongside each church, there are cemeteries which hold the mortal remains of these settlers. Some have fallen to decay and ruin. It is not unusual to find some strange stories behind these places.
Our hills have old haunts. Many places are still not accessible by road. A local traveller will avoid certain roads after sunset. There is an uncertain acceptance to things that “go bump in the night” amongst the hill folks.
Unnatural deaths and accidents often lead to weird disturbances. Many a sceptic would have their hair stand on ends and question the rational. Among the unexplained phenomenon are strange lights that seem to bob around riversides. A peculiar glow that seems to weave and travel in front of the observer – a “will-o-the wisp”.
Certain streams are supposed to be avoided during high noon or after dark. It has malevolent spirits that prey on the weak souls – especially children. The fever that follows does not abate till the local witch-doctor appeases or drives out this malignant force.
There are old trees that no-one would stand under on full moon nights for fear of being possessed by the banshees that gather there. Stories of people going mad after trying to brave the night are not uncommon.
Some of our British era cottages and mansions that dot the hillside have unsettled pasts. Visitors would not be amused to hear strange noises in these old houses. Stories of jilted lovers committing suicide, murders committed in the heat of an argument and deaths during natural calamities add a certain tinge of horror to these haunts.
Such can be scoffed at by sceptical person but if you are driving back alone on a cold winter night and you car suddenly breaks down, all you will hear is the eerie silence of the trees. All the stories that you have ever heard since childhood will come flooding back and then you will offer a silent prayer to the spirits that protect you and guide you on your journey through life.
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