Bhangarh, nestled amidst the rugged Aravalli hills in Rajasthan, India, is an abandoned city that holds a haunting tale of a curse and forgotten lives. This once-thriving city now stands as a desolate skeleton of its former self, its crumbling walls and deserted streets whispering tales of a paranormal past.
A City Built on a Curse
Legend has it that Bhangarh was established in the 17th century by Raja Bhagwant Singh, who named it after his grandfather, Madho Singh. The city flourished under his rule, becoming a thriving center of trade and commerce. However, its prosperity was short-lived, as tragedy struck in the form of a deadly curse.
Two main legends are associated with the curse of Bhangarh:
The Tale of the Holy Man:
One legend speaks of a holy man named Baba Balnath, who meditated in a cave nestled within the hills overlooking the city. He granted permission for the construction of Bhangarh on one condition: no building should ever cast a shadow on his cave. Raja Bhagwant Singh, blinded by ambition, disregarded the sage’s warning and constructed a high palace that shadowed the cave. This enraged Baba Balnath, and he cursed the city, prophesying its downfall and condemning its inhabitants to a life of unrest.
The Love-Struck Magician:
Another legend tells a tale of forbidden love and vengeful magic. Princess Ratnavati, known for her beauty and intelligence, was betrothed to the prince of another kingdom. A tantric sorcerer named Singhiya fell deeply in love with the princess and practiced black magic to win her affection. He attempted to use magic to make her his own, but instead, he accidentally poisoned her. Enraged by the princess’s death, Singhiya cursed the entire city, vowing to turn it into a desolate wasteland.
A City Abandoned
Following these events, misfortune began to plague Bhangarh. Residents met with untimely deaths, mysterious illnesses spread, and the city fell into decline. Eventually, the remaining inhabitants fled in fear, leaving Bhangarh to its fate.
Hauntings and Paranormal Activity
Today, Bhangarh stands as a ghost town, eerily silent and shrouded in an aura of mystery. Locals believe that the restless spirits of the deceased still roam the ruins, and numerous incidents of paranormal activity have been reported. Tourists and visitors often recount experiences of strange sounds, ghostly apparitions, and inexplicable occurrences.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has even banned entry to the site after sunset, further fueling the rumors of its haunted nature.
Unraveling the Mystery
While the stories of curses and hauntings add to the allure of Bhangarh, it’s important to consider other factors that may have contributed to its downfall. Earthquakes, natural disasters, and disease outbreaks could all have played a role in the city’s abandonment.
However, regardless of the true cause, Bhangarh remains a captivating destination, drawing in visitors with its haunting beauty and enigmatic history.
Visiting the Ghost City
If you find yourself in Rajasthan, Bhangarh is a must-visit for those seeking an offbeat experience. The ruins of the fort, temples, and palaces offer a glimpse into the past, while the surrounding hills provide stunning vistas. However, it’s important to be respectful of the local beliefs and avoid trespassing after sunset.
Conclusion
Bhangarh, the ghost city, serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the power of local legends. Whether you believe in the curse or not, the deserted city offers a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to contemplate the mysteries that remain veiled in the shadows of time.
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