Mussoorie and Landour: The Literary Gems of Uttarakhand

Contrary to a widespread belief among the youth of Uttarakhand in the early 21st century, this region has long been a source of inspiration for numerous writers across various genres. The twin towns of Mussoorie and Landour have always captivated renowned writers and historians from around the world. Everyone is familiar with the famous Ruskin Bond and his deep connections with Mussoorie. While many literature enthusiasts dream of meeting Mr. Bond at the Cambridge Book Depot on Mall Road, few realize that other literary giants such as John Lang, Lowell Thomas, Emily Eden, Sir Walter Scott, Charles Dickens, Agatha Christie, and Rudyard Kipling also have ties to Mussoorie, the “Queen of Hills.”

Literary Landmarks and Influences

Mussoorie and Landour are rich with literary heritage. Many houses in Landour are named after themes from Sir Walter Scott’s novels, including Kenilworth, Ivanhoe, and Waverly. The town’s prestigious schools, Woodstock and Wynberg, are also inspired by Scott’s works. The Irish influence is evident in names like Shamrock Cottage, Tipperary, and Killarney. Moreover, there is a “Kipling Road” in Mussoorie, one of the best trekking routes from Dehradun to Mussoorie.

Landour, an old British cantonment, boasts a rich history of civil officers, ecological and architectural changes, and even murders. These elements have been immortalized by the many poets and authors who were drawn to the town. For instance, Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot emerged from a story passed to her by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who learned it from Rudyard Kipling. This story involved the mysterious murder of Madam Frances Garnett-Orme at Mussoorie’s prestigious Hotel Savoy, a location with Gothic Victorian architecture, perfect for a murder mystery.

Kipling and Mussoorie

Rudyard Kipling, despite his brief stay in Mussoorie in 1888, left a lasting impact. He walked the beautiful ramps of Mussoorie, which he honored in his novel “Kim.” Kipling also transmitted the story of Madam Frances Garnett-Orme’s murder to Agatha Christie. Another intriguing story is that of Fredrick “Pahari” Wilson, the first Englishman to settle permanently in the Bhagirathi Valley.

The Tale of “Pahari” Wilson

Fredrick “Pahari” Wilson, an adventurer who deserted the British army in 1857, settled in Harshil after marrying a local Pahari girl. His timber trade flourished, allowing him to mint his own coins and effectively rule the region. His life story, full of adventure and defiance, deeply influenced Kipling. After hearing about Wilson during his stay at the Charleville Hotel (funded by Wilson and named after his son Charles), Kipling penned “A Man Who Would Be King,” loosely based on Wilson’s life.

Legacy and Revival

Kipling’s connection with Mussoorie brought mutual benefits. While Kipling gained inspiration for one of his most famous works, Mussoorie gained prestige by association. The Kipling Road in Mussoorie, once forgotten, is being revived, much to the delight of writers like Ruskin Bond, who once walked this scenic path. Bond believes that the road, offering views of Dehradun, continues to inspire new characters and plots.

Conclusion

Mussoorie and Landour are more than just picturesque hill stations; they are literary treasures. From the echoes of Sir Walter Scott to the adventurous tales of Fredrick “Pahari” Wilson, these towns have provided rich material for some of the world’s greatest writers. By reviving historical landmarks like Kipling Road, Mussoorie ensures that its literary legacy continues to inspire future generations. Let us celebrate and preserve this heritage, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty and historical tales that make Mussoorie and Landour literary gems of Uttarakhand.