People and Legends of Himalaya and the Ganga - Tapa dura

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, with their historical, religious and legendry 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 areas, 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., About The Author:- An ardent devotee of the Himalayas and the Holy Ganga, M.P. Kuksal has traveled extensively throughout the hill districts of Uttaranchal during his long service in the Community Development Department and even after his retirement. He has great love and attachment with the simple village folk living in remote inaccessible areas where He spent major period of service. He calls it his best posting and an excellent job. Kusal spent the early years of his life in picturesque lake Town of Nainital then went to Allahabad for higher studies in