What we do not understand or perceive dimly creates fear and awe. While it is the same emotion that goads scientists to discover, it also has a negative connotation. Paranormal events are generally associated with something sinister as we are not able to understand or explain them. It is like the proverbial incidence of a person stepping on a rope in a dark room and screaming for help thinking it was a snake.
Super scary paranormal stories are not for everyone. While you are with your friends, the discussions around spooky and paranormal activities always come up and they are difficult to ignore. These stories are associated with forts, streets, or buildings. Paranormal stories are passed on from one generation to the another and many times local people take these stories very seriously. A few such stories from around India are mentioned below:
The Bhangarh Fort of Rajasthan attracts thousands of travelers every year. It is infamous for being one of India’s most haunted sites. There are many myths and stories about this deserted land. According to the local people, Emperor Madho Singh built the city with the approval of Guru Balu Nath on the condition, the shadow of the emperor’s palace should never fall on Guru’s place of retreat. But after the construction, Guru’s tryst was broken and he cursed that the city would crumble into ruins. And since then, no construction has managed to survive in there. ASI has put up boards at several spots in Bhangarh warning people against staying on the premises after sunset and before the sun rises. Local people claim to have heard noises from inside the fort premises during nighttime and that the air gets charged with an uneasy heaviness. It is said that spirits roam inside the closed gates at these hours and the place becomes a hotbed for paranormal activities. Whoever has attempted to stay back in the fort or the nearby area after dark, has never returned to tell their tale. 
A popular Hotel in Mussoorie has been an inspiration to many horror stories. The hotel is said to have become haunted after the death of Lady Garnet Orme, a British spiritualist. She was murdered by lacing poison in the medicine bottle. Also, the doctor who treated her was found dead in similar circumstances. And since then, it is known as one of the haunted places of India.
Set amidst the natural beauty of Shimla is the spooky Tunnel Number 33. The tunnel was named after the British engineer Captain Barog who undertook the construction. The tunnel was supposed to connect Shimla and Kalka but due to some problems, the work was halted. Captain Barog was charged with a heavy fine. Humiliated by everyone, he ended up taking his own life. Residents believe that Barog’s spirit now haunts the tunnel. He is however believed to be a friendly ghost who would not even shy away from having a chat with the living. Local people here often tell stories of how they went for a walk in the tunnel, met Barog’s ghost, even sat down with him and shared a laugh. The darkness of the tunnel contains something mysterious and has eerie energy.
Another spooky incident had taken place in Bangalore (rural) in the late 90s. It was believed that a supernatural entity would knock on the doors of the houses at night. Nobody would open the door since no one wanted to invite evil into their house. So, to protect themselves from the demon, people would write ‘Naale Baa’ (come back tomorrow) outside their homes. This was a practice that people followed every single day to protect themselves from the evil spirit.
The Dumas Beach in Gujarat is known for many mystical events throughout the year. This Arabian Sea belt used to be a burial ground. People believe that many restless spirits call out people and take them for a walk around the bay. These spirits mostly hypnotize people and eventually, they follow them towards the seashore. People claim that if you fall into their trap, you will disappear forever in the water.
So, what is the solution for those who are troubled by the thoughts of such events and are afraid even to step in the dark? On the contrary, some are not afraid at all. The answer perhaps lies in faith. Faith in something that will protect us – be it guardian angel, God, an amulet, iron bangle, or any such totem or concept. Some of us also have our beliefs The stronger and unflinching the faith, the more fearless the person becomes. So, what is your source of confidence?
Written by Aricia Bahl for MTTN
Edited by Asma Abidin for MTTN
Featured Image by Lenka Simeckova
Image and Information Sources: Times of India, The Hindu, India.com
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