The temple remains in memory now

Tanya Verma

A year has passed, yet the tragedy at Summer Hill’s Shiv temple, also known as Shiv Bavdi, continues to haunt many. I vividly recall the dreadful morning when the news of a devastating landslide near the Shiv temple in Shimla flashed across my television screen, leaving everyone at home stunned. The sight was indeed difficult to believe, especially since this place holds deep significance for me and my family.

As I reminisce about my childhood, it brings a wave of nostalgia and transports me back to a time of boundless joy when I used to visit Summer Hill to live with my grandparents during the summer vacation. My grandfather, a retired professor from Himachal Pradesh University, and my grandmother, a teacher at a nearby school, made each one of our summer vacations unforgettable. My grandparents’ home was always filled with their warmth, besides the aroma of freshly cooked food they used to make for us.

One of our favourite outings was to The Mall, where my grandfather would treat me to delicious pastries and other delights from the renowned Trishool Bakeries. There was a unique joy in exploring the local market in the daytime and walking around the Summer Hill railway station, waiting for the Kalka-Shimla toy train to come. The sound of the train chugging in and out, the whistle blowing and the chatter of passengers — they were all so familiar and comforting.

Each morning, my mother and I would stroll to the Shiv temple, a mere three kilometres from our home, encountering monkeys and langurs along the way. The Shiv Mandir holds a deep cultural significance, drawing devotees and natives from across the state. It used to witness a huge rush during the month of saawan as several religious activities, including havans and bhandaras, were organised by the local authorities. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, the temple exuded a serene and divine beauty that offered immense peace even as the melodic tinkling of temple bells, the chirping of birds and the soothing sound of flowing water near the peepal tree across the road added to its charm.

The temple does not stand there anymore. It got washed away in the massive landslide last year that ravaged not only the structure, but also our profound memories. I wish I could relive those delightful moments of childhood.