Introduction to Baak stories of Assam
Assam, a northeastern state in India, is known for its rich culture and traditions. One aspect of its culture is its folklore, which includes many horror stories that have been passed down through generations. In this article, we will explore some of the most spine-chilling horror stories from Assam, collectively known as “Baak.”
What are Baak stories and their purpose?
Baak is a word used in Assamese to refer to stories that are believed to be true, passed down from one generation to the next through oral tradition. These stories are often cautionary tales, warning people about the dangers of the supernatural and the consequences of misbehavior.
The Legend of Tejimola
One of the most popular Baak stories from Assam is the legend of Tejimola. According to the story, Tejimola was a beautiful and kind-hearted woman who lived in a remote village. One day, a rich man from the nearby town saw her and fell in love with her. He kidnapped Tejimola and brought her to his house, where he forced her to marry him. Tejimola, however, could not forget her love for her village and her people. She died soon after, and her spirit haunted the rich man’s house, seeking revenge. To this day, people believe that her spirit still haunts the house.
The Legend of the Maroi
Another popular Baak story is the legend of the Maroi. The Maroi is a creature that is said to roam the forests of Assam, looking for human prey. The Maroi is believed to be a witch who was cursed by the gods for her evil deeds. According to the legend, the Maroi can change its form and appearance at will, making it difficult to spot. It is said that the only way to protect oneself from the Maroi is to wear a talisman made of special herbs and plants.
The Haunted House in Jorhat
There is also a Baak story about a haunted house in the town of Jorhat. According to the story, a family that had just moved into the house was terrorized by a ghost that kept knocking on their door every night. The family tried everything to get rid of the ghost, including seeking the help of a holy man. Eventually, they discovered that the ghost was that of a woman who had been murdered in the house many years ago. They performed a special ceremony to appease the ghost, and she stopped haunting the house.
Real-life incidents in Baak stories
Baak stories are not just about ghosts and witches. Some of them are real-life incidents that are just as terrifying. For example, there is a Baak story about a man who was traveling through the forest at night when he suddenly heard the sound of a woman crying. He followed the sound and found a woman sitting by a tree, crying. When he asked her what was wrong, she told him that she had been abandoned by her husband and was lost in the forest. The man offered to help her and led her to his village. The next morning, the woman was gone, and the man realized that he had been tricked by a witch who had been using her powers to lure travelers into the forest.
Significance of Baak Stories in Assam’s Culture
Baak stories are an essential part of the rich cultural heritage of Assam. These stories are not just entertaining but also provide valuable insights into the beliefs and traditions of the people of Assam. While some of the stories may seem far-fetched, they are deeply ingrained in the cultural consciousness of the people and continue to be passed down from generation to generation. If you ever find yourself in Assam, be sure to ask the locals about their favorite Baak stories, but be warned, they might just keep you up at night.
Dive Deeper
Book Recommendation
If you’re interested in reading more about the Baak stories of Assam, a great book to start with is “The Legends of Assam” by Padmanath Gohain Baruah. This book is a collection of folktales and legends from Assam, including many Baak stories. It provides insight into the cultural traditions and beliefs of the people of Assam and offers a fascinating look into the world of Assamese folklore. Whether you’re a fan of horror stories or simply interested in learning more about the culture of Assam, “The Legends of Assam” is an excellent book to add to your reading list.
Documentary/ Video
Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a documentary solely dedicated to the Baak stories of Assam. However, I came across a video on YouTube that features one of the popular Baak stories of Assam, “Tejimola.” The video is in Assamese, with English subtitles, and is part of a series called “The Paranormal Zone.”
In the video, the storyteller narrates the legend of Tejimola in a way that is both entertaining and chilling. The video is well-produced and features some stunning visuals of the Assamese countryside. It’s an excellent introduction to the world of Baak stories and is sure to leave you wanting more.
If you found this article informative, you might want to take a look at this other article – The Spine-Chilling Horror Stories of Skanda Maata in West Bengal