Jaisalmer, the “Golden City of India,” is steeped in history, mystery, and folklore. Nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, this enchanting city has been a silent witness to centuries of trade, war, and royal grandeur. From its legendary fort to the eerie tales of abandoned villages, Jaisalmer continues to captivate travelers with its intriguing past.
The Origin of Jaisalmer: A City Built on Legend
Jaisalmer was founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput ruler. According to legend, Rawal Jaisal met a sage named Eesul, who prophesied that a fortress built on the Trikuta Hill would be impregnable. Heeding the sage’s advice, Rawal Jaisal abandoned his former capital, Lodurva, and established Jaisalmer.
The golden-hued fort and sandstone structures reflect the rich heritage and resilience of the city, which has stood the test of time. However, Jaisalmer is more than just its imposing fort—it is a land of myths, unsolved mysteries, and whispered tales passed down through generations.
The Haunting of Kuldhara: Jaisalmer’s Abandoned Village
One of the most famous legends surrounding Jaisalmer is the eerie story of Kuldhara Village. Located around 17 km from Jaisalmer, Kuldhara was once a prosperous settlement of the Paliwal Brahmins, known for their agricultural expertise and trade.
The Curse That Led to Abandonment
Legend has it that Salim Singh, the ruthless prime minister of Jaisalmer, set his eyes on the daughter of the village chief. He demanded her hand in marriage and threatened dire consequences if the villagers refused. The Paliwal community, unwilling to surrender to tyranny, chose to abandon their village overnight, leaving behind a curse that no one would ever be able to inhabit Kuldhara again.
To this day, Kuldhara remains deserted. Locals believe supernatural forces prevent any permanent settlement, and many visitors claim to have experienced an eerie silence and unexplained paranormal activities in the village.
The Jaisalmer Fort: A Living Legend
Unlike many forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is still inhabited by people, making it one of the world’s few “living forts.” Built by Rawal Jaisal, the fort has witnessed numerous battles, including invasions by Alauddin Khilji and Mughal forces.
The Battle of Jauhar
During the 13th century, the fort was besieged by Alauddin Khilji. With no hope of victory, Rajput women committed Jauhar (self-immolation) to avoid capture, while the men fought to their last breath. This practice was repeated in 1541 AD, when the Mughals attacked.
Even today, many believe that the spirits of the fallen warriors and queens linger within the fort’s walls. The ghostly echoes of battle and whispers of the past continue to make Jaisalmer Fort a place of intrigue.
The Mysterious Lake of Jaisalmer: Gadisar Lake’s Spiritual Connection
Another fascinating legend is linked to Gadisar Lake, a man-made reservoir built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century. This lake was Jaisalmer’s primary water source, and it is believed that it was blessed by sages.
The Guardian of the Lake
An interesting folklore states that a wandering saint once predicted that the lake would never dry up as long as people respected its sanctity. Even in the harshest droughts, the lake has miraculously retained water, leading many to believe that supernatural forces protect it.
The Hidden Treasure of Jaisalmer
Many local tales speak of hidden treasures buried beneath the sands of Jaisalmer. It is believed that during times of war, wealthy merchants and rulers hid vast amounts of gold and jewels underground to prevent them from falling into enemy hands.
The Subterranean Vaults of Patwon Ki Haveli and the rumored underground tunnels of the fort are said to contain such treasures. Some explorers claim to have seen secret passageways leading to unknown depths, but these remain sealed due to safety concerns.
The Story of Tanot Mata: The Goddess Who Protected Jaisalmer
In the 1965 Indo-Pak War, the Tanot Mata Temple, located near the India-Pakistan border, became the center of an astonishing legend. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Tanot, is believed to have protected Indian soldiers during the war.
The Divine Intervention
During the war, over 3000 bombs were dropped near the temple, but none exploded within its premises. Soldiers and locals believe this miracle was due to the divine presence of Tanot Mata. Even today, the temple stands as a symbol of faith, with Indian Army soldiers managing its upkeep.
The Mystery of the Disappearing Caravan
Jaisalmer was once a vital trade hub, with caravans passing through the Silk Route. However, one particular story stands out—a caravan that disappeared without a trace.
The Vanishing Merchants
According to folklore, a wealthy trader named Bhandari and his caravan were making their way through the desert when they encountered an eerie sandstorm. When the storm cleared, the entire caravan—men, camels, and goods—had vanished without a trace. To this day, locals talk of ghostly apparitions of traders appearing in the dunes, forever lost in time.
The Connection Between Jaisalmer and Lord Krishna
Jaisalmer is deeply linked to the Yadava dynasty, the lineage of Lord Krishna. It is said that Krishna once prophesied that a distant descendant of his (Rawal Jaisal) would establish a kingdom in a land of golden sands. This prophecy came true when Jaisal founded Jaisalmer.
Many devotees believe that Jaisalmer’s temples hold Krishna’s blessings, which is why the city has endured despite countless invasions and hardships.
Conclusion
Jaisalmer is not just a historical city; it is a place where legends live, mysteries linger, and the golden sands whisper forgotten tales. Whether it’s the haunting of Kuldhara, the Jaisalmer Fort’s ghostly echoes, or the miraculous survival of Tanot Mata Temple, these stories continue to intrigue visitors.
If you ever visit, take the time to explore its forts, temples, and abandoned villages—you might just become part of its legend.
