The Extraordinary Tale of General Baiju: The Goat Who Saved British Soldiers

During the chaotic days of the First World War, as conflict raged across Afghanistan, an incredible story unfolded that would become a cherished legend among the British forces. The Garhwal Rifles, a proud regiment of the British Indian Army, found themselves in a life-or-death struggle that would soon take an unexpected turn.

A Dire Situation

The Garhwal Rifles were stationed in a region torn apart by rebellion and conflict. Conditions were harsh, and food supplies were critically low. The soldiers, facing relentless fighting and severe shortages, were growing weaker by the day. Their situation was grim; they were battling not just the enemy, but also the unforgiving landscape and a desperate hunger that gnawed at their resolve.

The Unlikely Hero

In the midst of this dire struggle, something extraordinary happened. One day, as the soldiers searched desperately for anything to eat, they spotted some movement in the bushes. With their rifles at the ready, they prepared for what they feared might be an enemy ambush. Instead, out of the underbrush came a goat.

Far from being a threat, the goat seemed to be guiding them towards something valuable. The soldiers watched in amazement as the goat began to dig vigorously in an open field. When a soldier moved in for a closer look, he was stunned to find potatoes buried in the ground.

This unexpected find was nothing short of a miracle. The soldiers dug up enough potatoes to relieve their hunger and boost their morale. The goat had inadvertently saved their lives, leading them to a crucial food source in their time of need.

The Honorary General

The story of the goat didn’t end with the war. When the conflict was over, the soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles returned to Lansdowne, bringing their unexpected hero with them. To honor the goat’s role in their survival, they decided to bestow upon it a remarkable accolade. The goat was given the honorary rank of General and named General Baiju.

General Baiju was not just a symbol of the soldiers’ gratitude but also a beloved figure in Lansdowne. He was allowed to roam freely around the town, and local shops were instructed to provide him with whatever he desired, with the army covering the costs. General Baiju’s presence became a joyful reminder of the extraordinary bond between the soldiers and their four-legged savior.

A Lasting Legacy

The tale of General Baiju remains a testament to the unpredictable nature of war and the surprising ways in which help can come from the most unexpected places. It highlights the deep camaraderie and gratitude that can emerge even in the darkest times. General Baiju’s honorary rank and his free-roaming days in Lansdowne serve as a cherished piece of military history and local folklore—a heartwarming reminder of hope and resilience amidst adversity.

Kasar Devi, a small village located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, is special in many ways. Situated about seven kilometres from Almora town, this village is surrounded by dense forests and offers a wonderful view of the Himalayas.

Kasar Devi is the place where Swami Vivekananda had also come, he had meditated here, since then this place and the temple have become famous among all kinds of travellers. Swami Vivekananda liked this place so much that he even mentioned it in his writings. Kasar Devi became so popular among the people that some famous people like Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Cat Stevens, Allen Ginsberg and Timothy Leary also came here. In the decade of hippie culture in the 70s, this place became Hippie Hill.

Why did Swami Vivekananda call this Hippie Hill his spiritual land?

This enchanting hilly village has captivated the hearts of many notable figures, including Swami Vivekananda—the esteemed Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, and spiritual teacher; Uma Thurman—renowned Hollywood actress; and Bob Dylan—legendary songwriter.

In the late 19th century, Swami Vivekananda spent several months in Kasar Devi, immersing himself in meditation and reflection. During his stay, he is said to have experienced a profound and mysterious event that significantly shaped his spiritual beliefs and teachings. The serene and picturesque environment of Kasar Devi left an indelible mark on him, enhancing the village’s reputation as a place of deep spiritual significance.

The allure of Kasar Devi extends beyond its historical and spiritual heritage. Its breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere continue to attract seekers and travelers from all corners of the globe. The village’s profound impact on such distinguished individuals highlights its unique ability to inspire and transform, making it a cherished destination for those in search of inner peace and enlightenment.

Even NASA is baffled by the mysteries of this kasar devi.

Kasar Devi is renowned for its enigmatic magnetic pull, which has drawn visitors from across the globe for centuries. This intriguing phenomenon is often attributed to a unique energy field or the intersection of Ley lines in the region.

According to NASA research, the Kasar Devi temple is situated on the Van Allen belts—an area where energetically charged particles are trapped within Earth’s magnetic field. This scientific insight adds a fascinating dimension to the temple’s mystical reputation. Many believe that the temple and its surroundings possess not only magnetic but also magical and healing properties, contributing to its allure.

The village’s profound spiritual significance is exemplified by Swami Vivekananda, who embraced Kasar Devi as his spiritual sanctuary in the late 19th century. His deep meditation and spiritual experiences at this site were pivotal, shaping his teachings and reinforcing the village’s status as a place of deep spiritual resonance.

Beyond its magnetic and spiritual attributes, Kasar Devi’s serene environment and breathtaking views continue to inspire and captivate those who seek solace, insight, and transformation. The blend of scientific curiosity and spiritual depth makes Kasar Devi a unique and enduring destination for seekers of inner peace and enlightenment.

How to reach kasar devi temple

By air – Pantnagar airport of Dehradun is the nearest, which is 124 kilometres away. From the airport, travellers can easily take local buses or private taxis to Almora which is 8 km away from the Kasar Devi Temple.

By Train – The nearest railway to temple is Kathgodam railway station and it is 88 km from the temple. Local buses and private taxis ply daily from the station to Almora.

By Road – The last destination,temple is just 8 km away from Almora, which is well connected to major cities. The distance between the temple and Delhi is 373 km, which can be covered through buses, taxis or private cars.

The Uttarayani Mela, held annually in the second week of January, is a vibrant celebration marking Makar Sankranti, a major Hindu festival that signals the sun’s transition from the southern hemisphere to the northern hemisphere. This grand fair takes place in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, notably in Bageshwar, Rani Bag, and Hanseshwari, with Bageshwar hosting the most significant festivities.

A Sacred and Festive Venue

The heart of the Uttarayani Mela is the sacred grounds of the Bagnath Temple, located along the banks of the Saryu River in Bageshwar. This week-long fair transforms the area into a bustling hub of activity. Devotees believe that bathing in the holy Saryu River during this auspicious period can purify both the body and the soul. The fair’s commencement coincides with the sun’s entry into the northern hemisphere, a moment of spiritual significance for many.

Cultural Extravaganza

One of the most captivating aspects of the Uttarayani Mela is its rich cultural display. The festival showcases traditional performances by local artists who sing folk songs such as Jhora, Chanchari, and Baira. These vibrant performances, often accompanied by lively dance, offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Kumaon region. Attendees also enjoy performances by cultural groups from neighboring districts, adding to the festival’s diverse and colorful atmosphere.

Shopping and Local Crafts

The fair is also a shopper’s paradise, featuring a wide array of local produce and crafts. Visitors can purchase iron and copper utensils, bamboo crafts, baskets, barrels, mats, mattresses, carpets, blankets, herbs, and spices. These items reflect the traditional craftsmanship of the region and offer a unique shopping experience for both locals and tourists.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Uttarayani Mela has historical roots dating back to the Chand dynasty, which played a crucial role in shaping the fair’s traditions. Over the years, the festival has also witnessed significant political and social movements. Notably, during India’s freedom struggle, the mela served as a platform for activists, including Pandit Badri Datt Pandey, who was known as ‘Kumaon Kesari.’ In 1921, Pandey and other rebels utilized the festival to voice their opposition to colonial rule.

The Black Crow Festival

A unique aspect of the celebrations is the Ghughutia or Black Crow festival, which occurs during Uttarayani. On this day, children make sweets from a mixture of flour and jaggery, deep-fried in ghee and shaped into various forms like drums and pomegranates. Wearing these sweet garlands, children sing traditional songs to attract crows and other migratory birds. The song, which goes:

“Black, black, forgotten have come, Eat rice and flour. This crow, bring me gold, This crow, bring me a gold plate.”

reflects the hope for prosperity and a bountiful future as they welcome the returning migratory birds.

The Uttarayani Mela is more than just a fair; it is a celebration of cultural heritage, spiritual significance, and communal joy. From the sacred rituals at the Saryu River to the lively folk performances and vibrant market stalls, the festival captures the essence of Kumaon’s traditions and welcomes the sun’s northward journey with enthusiasm and reverence.