Uttarakhand Avalanche: Mana Villagers Saved by Ancient Wisdom & Annual Migration
The Doors of Badrinath Temple Close: A Ritual for Survival
Each November, as the doors of the Badrinath temple close, the residents of Mana village in the Garhwal Himalayas embark on their annual migration to Gopeshwar, Jyotirmath, and Jhinkwan in Chamoli district. This ritual has been a part of their tradition for centuries, and it has literally been a matter of life and death. The villagers’ decision to leave their homes and livelihoods behind is not just a testament to their faith and devotion but also a reflection of their deep understanding of the unforgiving Himalayan terrain.
The Wisdom of the Elders
The village headman, Pitambhar Molpha, emphasized, "We are fortunate we had shifted to lower locations; otherwise, many people could have been trapped." The villagers’ ability to anticipate and prepare for natural disasters is a testament to their centuries-old knowledge of the mountains. This wisdom has been passed down through generations, allowing them to adapt to the harsh climate and unpredictable weather patterns.
Avalanches: A Familiar Threat
The recent avalanche that struck the Mana-Ghastoli route, just 500 meters from the village, is not an unfamiliar threat. Molpha shared, "Avalanches have been reported here in February and March before. At this time of year, workers are engaged in removing snow from the main routes. There is also an army camp near our village." The villagers’ experience has taught them to stay vigilant and prepared, even in the face of adversity.
The Story of Sandeep Aswal’s Tea Stall
Sandeep Aswal, the owner of a tea stall, has witnessed tourists flocking to Mana’s mystique. "It is an unfortunate incident. Since the village is empty, we don’t have any updates on whether the avalanche impacted the area. But we feel blessed that all 400 families had already moved." Aswal’s tea stall, once known as the "last tea stall of the country" and now rebranded as the "first tea stall," has seen its fair share of visitors. His story is a testament to the village’s resilience and ability to adapt to the unpredictable weather conditions.
Conclusion
The story of the villagers of Mana serves as a reminder of the importance of community, heritage, and the age-old wisdom that has been passed down through generations. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of climate change and natural disasters, we would do well to learn from the villagers’ determination to survive and thrive in the face of adversity. The doors of Badrinath temple may close, but the wisdom of the elders will continue to guide the people of Mana, ensuring their survival and prosperity for generations to come.
Live News Daily is a trusted name in the digital news space, delivering accurate, timely, and in-depth reporting on a wide range of topics.