In Sammoo village of Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur district, Diwali passes like any other day, with homes remaining dark and silent as the rest of India revels in light and festivity. This unique tradition stems from a haunting legend that dates back generations, casting a shadow over the village each Diwali. The story tells of a woman who, upon hearing the news of her husband’s death, committed Sati on Diwali. Consumed by grief and despair, she is believed to have cursed the villagers, forbidding them from ever celebrating the festival.
A Curse That No One Can Break
This curse has been a guiding force, shaping the lives of Sammoo’s residents for hundreds of years. Elders caution that any attempt to celebrate—whether by lighting lamps, bursting crackers, or preparing special foods—would invite calamities and misfortunes. Many villagers recount tales of disasters befalling those who defied the tradition, reinforcing the community’s commitment to observe Diwali in silence.
Even those who move away from Sammoo are not free from this curse, as one villager recounts. Pooja Devi, the head of Bhoranj panchayat, recalls a family who, while living far from Sammoo, prepared Diwali dishes, only to see their house catch fire. Now, instead of celebrating, the villagers honour the memory of the woman who committed Sati by lighting a single diya in her remembrance.
Silent Diwali in Sammoo
For the people of Sammoo, this tradition has become a way of life. Veena, a village elder, shared that she has witnessed over 70 Diwalis marked by silence, and each attempt to break the curse has resulted in misfortune. Despite these experiences, some of the younger villagers feel a longing to celebrate Diwali, to revel in the joy and light they see in surrounding villages. However, the collective memory and the deeply held fear of the curse keep them bound to their customs.
Hope remains, though. Many villagers believe that one day, the curse may be lifted, allowing them to join in the festive spirit of Diwali without fear. Until then, the people of Sammoo wait, watching the festival of lights pass by as they honour the legacy of the past.
(With agency inputs)