VISHVENDU JAIPURIAR
Hazaribagh, Oct.10: A famous selfie point for visitors in Hazaribagh is the Sheshnag on the foothills of Mahudi Pahad. The mountain, situated in Barkagaon block, only six km away from block headquarters in the Dumaro forest area, is known for ancient temples and rocky structures.
As per historical notes, in the 14th century, the then-ruler of this area Raja Dalel Singh had made many temples made on the Mahudi hills. These included several rock structures including the Sheshnag which still stands here and is a popular spot for tourists who visit this place. The Pahad is 26 km away from Hazaribagh district headquarters.
Barkagaon is known for ancient paintings of Sohrai and Kohbar along with several of its tourist spots as well. Suresh Kumar, an elderly resident of the region said, “Raja Dalel was known as a liberal king that promoted all religions. It is said that he was known for his work in making temples and installing shivlings in the natural caves of Mahudi. He believed that ancient people lived in caves and so many such structures were made here resembling their lives.”
Vishvendu Jaipuriar
While making the Sheshnag structure, rock structures were cut and given the shape of Sheshnag. It is still surprising how the rock carvers in the 14th century carved the rock to look like Sheshnag.
The hill, which is 500 m high has waterfalls along with strokes of flowers and greenery. Suman Kumar, a youth from Chatra said that upon visiting the structure he was awe-struck. The youth further urged the state government to develop the region.
Vishvendu jaipuriar
Well-known author and megalith explorer Subhashis Das, who had visited the place a number of times said, “Mahudi is God’s own hill.” He said that this hill is home to many ancient rock-cut temples. “This spot is a place to visit as it has everything which soothes the eyes and brings peace to mind. Anyone coming here for the first time would like to visit again,” Das added.
Local villager Janki Mistri known to be an expert on ancient sites in the region said, “Mahudi was like a hill station for people of neighbouring districts earlier. She said that it was a popular destination which lost its glory due to negligence. If developed, Mahudi Pahad will be the most popular tourist destination of the state,” she added.
