Nestled a stone’s throw away from the Chhukha bridge, an unassuming rock stands as a silent sentinel, bearing witness to the ebb and flow of time. To the casual observer, it may appear as just another geological formation adorning the landscape. However, for those attuned to the whispers of history and folklore, this rock unveils a tapestry woven with threads of myth and tradition, casting a spell of intrigue over the curious traveler’s mind.
This rock, etched with the hoof prints of Tertoen Drukdra Dorji’s mystical pony, Balaha, is steeped in the rich tapestry of local beliefs and historical narratives. Legend has it that centuries ago, this rugged terrain was plagued by a malevolent demon, akin to the infamous Nyala Duem of Trongsa, casting a shadow of peril over the ancient trade routes. It was Tertoen, on his journey to Pasakha, who quelled the demon’s fury with a formidable display of divine power, imprinting his pony’s hooves upon the demon’s lair as a symbol of peace and protection. Thus, ‘Tathil’ was born, a name that echoes through the corridors of time, signifying the forefoot of a horse and the enduring triumph of good over evil.
Yet, the tale does not end here. Delving deeper into the annals of history, we encounter the enigmatic figure of Tsang Khenchen, a revered Tibetan Master whose footsteps once graced these ancient paths. In his quest for spiritual enlightenment, Khenchen traversed the rugged terrain of Cooch Bihar, leaving behind a trail of mystique and wonder. It is said that amidst the whispering pines and towering cliffs, Khenchen embarked on a sacred endeavor, chiseling Dolma statues into the very heart of the stone. Thus, the name ‘Tagkthil’ emerged, a testament to the symbiotic relationship between art and nature, where the echoes of Khenchen’s craftsmanship still resonate to this day.
As we peel back the layers of time, the true essence of Tathil emerges—a convergence of myth and history, artistry and geography, weaving a tapestry of cultural heritage that transcends the boundaries of time and space. It is a place where the echoes of the past reverberate through the ages, inviting us to delve deeper into the mysteries that lie beneath the surface.
So, the next time you find yourself traversing the winding roads of Chhukha, spare a moment to gaze upon the silent sentinel that is Tathil. For in its weathered facade lies a story waiting to be told, a story of courage and triumph, of artistry and devotion, etched into the very fabric of its being.
