06/09/2023
"The Mystical Footprints of Dilbu Pattal"
It was the month of October in the year 2022 when our team, Do·amek, embarked on an extraordinary journey to the depths of Emangre South Garo Hills. Our destination lay hidden in the least known corners of this picturesque region, a place called Dilbu Pattal. Little did we know that this unassuming hideaway held the key to a captivating tale, shrouded in mystery and folklore.
As we approached Dilbu Pattal, we could hear the gentle murmur of a small stream meandering its way through the landscape. Nestled along its banks, we discovered an intriguing sight - an unmistakable imprint of what appeared to be the foot of a colossal being on the solid rock. Excitement filled the air as we measured the imprint, only to unveil the astonishing truth - it was a left foot, a staggering 24 inches in length! Sadly, the right foot had been submerged by the cascading waters, leaving us with unanswered questions and an insatiable curiosity.
Our gracious host, Mr. Jefferson Momin, a resident of Emangre village, shared with us the story that had been passed down through generations. According to the tales of their ancestors, two brothers, Torak and Rongrak from the Arengh clan of the Garos, once roamed these lands. These siblings possessed extraordinary strength and stature, setting them apart from others in their community. They engaged in jhum cultivation for their livelihood, a revered practice among the Garos.
One fateful day, Torak, the elder brother, extended an invitation to Rongrak, the younger sibling. Garo custom dictated that nothing from the cultivation could be consumed without offering it to their deity, Torak proposed that they partake in the tradition of drinking rice beer from the previous year's harvest before indulging in their labor's fruits. This act would symbolize their gratitude and respect for the earth and its bounties.
As Rongrak embarked on his journey to join Torak, he encountered a colossal alligator, known as Pusil in the local dialect. Determined and fearless, he engaged in a fierce battle, pouring every ounce of strength into repelling the formidable creature. Sensing his younger brother's struggle, Torak heeded the call of an unknown force and rushed to his aid, brandishing his traditional sword, Milam.
Together, the brothers fought valiantly until they managed to sever the alligator's head, liberating Rongrak from his perilous situation. The foot imprint we discovered at Dilbu Pattal was a testimony to this legendary encounter, a symbol of the brothers' bravery and their unwavering bond.
Garo Hills had gained notoriety worldwide for alleged sightings of a mythical creature known as Big Foot. While we can't be certain if the foot imprint we encountered belonged to Big Foot or to Rongrak and Torak, the tale itself was undeniably captivating. It transported us back in time, weaving together the fabric of tradition, folklore, and the enigmatic wonders of the Garo Hills.
Our expedition to Dilbu Pattal had not only added to the lore of this mystical region but also reinforced our belief in the importance of preserving such tales for generations to come. As we bid farewell to the ethereal beauty of Emangre South Garo Hills, we carried with us the weight of this remarkable foot imprint - a silent guardian, a testament to a bygone era, and a reminder of the profound connection between man and nature.
May the mysteries of the Garo Hills continue to intrigue and delight, keeping alive the spirit of their ancient legends and filling our hearts with wonderment.
