Nestled beneath the towering embrace of Dev Tibba and Chandrakhani Peaks, within the enchanting Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, lies the ethereal village of 'Malana'. Like a hidden gem, this village resides near the tranquil Parvati Valley, casting off the bustling throngs of tourists. What sets Malana apart is its idyllic charm, a canvas painted with the hues of unique culture, fervent religious beliefs, and timeless customs.
The very origins of Malana village are shrouded in the veils of enigma, a tapestry interwoven with threads of mysticism. Among the legends that envelop its inception, the name of sage Jamadagni is whispered. Yet, like fragments of a mosaic, the tales differ, each offering its own rendition of the village's birth. Enshrouded in folklore, one such tale reveals that a demon, Danu or Banasura, once held dominion over these lands. His tyranny ignited a spark of rebellion among the villagers, who beseeched their local deities for deliverance.
Bound by their own limitations, the gods could only convey that the power to overcome this malevolent force lay to the North. As the villagers embarked on their quest for this northern power, their journey led them to sage Jamadagni at Hamta, nestled within Kulu. This sage, descended from the revered lineage of Rishi Bhriguvanshi Ruchika, held the key to their salvation. With unwavering resolve, Jamadagni took up the mantle to face the demon, the heavens and earth bearing witness to their monumental clash. The battle raged fierce and unyielding, ultimately culminating in the demon's defeat. Banasura, humbled and contrite, implored the villagers to remember him as they left. In response, sage Jamadagni bestowed upon the village a unique gift—the 'Kanashi' dialect, to be spoken by the people of Malana for generations.
With the demon vanquished and tranquility restored, Jamadagni then outlined the principles and regulations that would shape the course of Malana's existence—a legacy meticulously upheld even in the present day.
Malana emerges as an oasis of fascination, a haven beckoning to the spiritual seeker and the adventurer alike. A trek to its serene environs reveals an exquisite journey adorned with the vibrant tapestry of cedar trees, their verdant hues juxtaposed against the crystal vista of the Malana Dam. Amidst this natural splendor, the Madagni temple and the Renuka Devi temple stand as emblems of devotion. Within their sacred confines, deities are revered and souls find solace.
Eclipsing the ordinary, Malana's governance dances to its own rhythm. Governed by a distinct parliament, the village's administration remains immune to external influence. This remarkable autonomy, propelled by their unwavering faith in democracy, stems from their reverence for Jamlu Dev. As the guiding force, Jamlu Dev steers the village's course, and the council of eleven, termed as Jambalu Dev's representatives, shapes its destiny.
Amidst this panoramic tapestry, a remarkable tribute to history unfolds—an act of worship that unites two seemingly disparate figures. During the Phagli festival, the villagers of Malana pay homage to relics of Rishi Jamadagni, known affectionately as Jamlu Dev, and an unexpected figure, Emperor Akbar. In an awe-inspiring ritual, the gold idol of Akbar takes its place alongside the venerable sage, symbolizing a harmonious convergence of historical narratives.
The legend traces back to a time when Akbar's rule extended its hand to Malana, demanding taxes. The priest of Rishi Jamadagni staunchly resisted, adhering to the sanctity of temple and tradition. This stance triggered a sequence of events that would forever entwine the emperor's legacy with the village's devotion. Witnessing divine intervention, Emperor Akbar recognized the exalted nature of Jamlu Dev's influence as snow descended upon Agra, affirming the deity's prowess.
Touched by this revelation, Emperor Akbar extended an offering of respect—an ornate gold idol of Rishi Jamadagni—to Malana. From that day forth, the two figures shared a space within the village's heart, a testament to the profound intersection of history and spirituality.
As visitors tread upon the hallowed grounds of Malana, a hushed reverence for its customs and traditions is paramount. Adhering to designated paths and refraining from contact with walls and structures stand as acts of homage. A modest penalty accompanies any transgressions, a reminder of the village's reverence for purity.
Steeped in tradition, the Malani people maintain an intricate ritual of purification prior to entering their homes or partaking in meals. While they graciously offer meal to visitors, this ritual extends to the utensils, sanctified anew with each use. The embrace of sustenance from beyond their valley remains rare, echoing the depth of their cultural ethos.
In the embrace of Dev Tibba and Chandrakhani Peaks, Malana stands as an enclave of history, spirituality, and traditions unswayed by time. A village both enigmatic and inviting, it offers a journey not only through landscapes but through the annals of the human spirit.
~ Dr Intaj Malek
