People and Legends of Himalaya and the Ganga

Lured, captivated and inspired by the enchanting beauty of the Himalayan snow peaks the author has sung the glory of the majestic Himalaya and his daughter the Holy Ganga. "They are not the monolithic columns of granite rocks covered with perpetual snow" he writes", but are ensouled with divinity". They are the celestial abode of gods. "Devatatma", the divine soul of god as Kalidas the great Sanskrit poet calls them. The book is full of mythological lore, legends about gods, sages and the Holy Ganga. It presents graphic picture of picturesque places, towns, holy shrines alpine meadows, snow peaks and gives their historical, religious and legendary background. It has interesting reminiscences of the beautiful Lake Town Nainital during the British days, school life in early twentieth century, college and university life during the days of India’s struggle for freedom. There are chapters devoted to the early years of Community development in remote border area, the problems faced by the staff and the zeal with which they worked and faced the situation. The book describes the charm of pilgrimage in old days before the construction of motor roads, pilgrimage now and the damage caused to the eco system of fragile Himalayas. There is a chapter on the rich art, culture, temples, folk songs and folk dances of the hills which form an important part of the life of hill people. In between are real events of life full of interest and suspense.