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Kolkata, the city of joy, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, mouth-watering delicacies, and vibrant festivities. However, beneath its cheerful surface, lies a darker side. Kolkata is also home to many eerie and mysterious places, with one of the most notorious being Putulbari House, also known as the House of Dolls. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River in Shobhabazar, North Kolkata, this haunted mansion has a chilling history that has intrigued locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will delve into the haunting tale of Putulbari House, uncovering its tragic past and the supernatural occurrences that have made it infamous.
Origins of Putulbari
Putulbari House, located at 22 Hara Chandra Mullick Lane, stands adjacent to the Circular Railway track and in close proximity to the Shobhabazar jetty. During the 20th century, Calcutta served as a bustling port for trade activities. Ships from foreign nations and other parts of India would dock at the Ahiritola and Shobhabazar ghats, unloading various goods such as spices, silk, and jute. These goods were then stored in the vast warehouses along Strand Road, one of them being Putulbari House. The name "Putulbari" translates to "House of Dolls," a moniker given to the warehouse due to the classical statues adorning its rooftop and the intriguing doll-like objects found within.
Dark Past of Putulbari House
Behind the grand facade of Putulbari House lies a haunting and tragic history. According to local legends, the wealthy babus who resided in the house during the era of British colonization abused their power and committed heinous crimes. It is said that they would prey upon young women, subjecting them to rape and then murdering them to conceal their deeds. As a result, the tormented souls of these unfortunate victims are believed to haunt the premises of Putulbari House, seeking justice and retribution.
Haunting Presence of Dolls
One peculiar aspect of Putulbari House is the presence of numerous dolls within its walls. It is said that the daughter of the house's owner had a deep fascination with dolls, and her obsession led her to cover the entire mansion with a vast collection of dolls of various shapes and sizes. Tragically, the daughter met an untimely demise, adding to the eerie atmosphere surrounding the house. On moonless nights, the rooftop of Putulbari House takes on an ominous appearance, with the doll-like objects creating an eerie and unsettling ambiance.
Over the years, numerous witnesses and visitors have reported experiencing strange and unexplained phenomena within the confines of Putulbari House. Mysterious sounds, apparitions, and unusual events have been attributed to the presence of supernatural entities. Locals claim to have heard the cries and whispers of female voices, believed to be the souls of the murdered women seeking justice. These spine-chilling occurrences have cemented Putulbari House's reputation as one of the most haunted places in Kolkata.
To deter curious trespassers and ghost enthusiasts, the current tenants of Putulbari House have erected a signboard proclaiming that the house is not haunted. The board serves as a warning to those who seek to confirm the rumors and urges them not to disturb the residents. However, the presence of such a sign only adds to the mystery and intrigue surrounding the house, leaving visitors questioning the truth behind the claims.
While many believe in the haunted nature of Putulbari House, there are also skeptics who dismiss the supernatural claims. Some locals who have spent a night in the house have reported no unusual occurrences, casting doubt on the existence of ghosts within its walls. It is worth noting that the poor residents of Putulbari House have been subjected to harassment by those eager to witness the haunting firsthand, leading some to speculate that the rumors may have been deliberately spread for personal gain.
Preservation Challenge
Presently, Putulbari House is inhabited by tenants, some of whom are unable or unwilling to maintain the aging structure. The financial constraints faced by the residents pose a challenge to the preservation of this historic and haunted landmark. The dilapidated state of the house adds to its eerie atmosphere, with crumbling walls and faded grandeur serving as a stark reminder of its haunting past.
While the allure of exploring a haunted house can be tempting for thrill-seekers, it is essential to exercise caution and respect the boundaries of the residents. The tales of Putulbari House serve as a cautionary reminder of the consequences that can arise from trespassing and disturbing the peace of those who call it home. Instead, visitors can appreciate the history and mystery surrounding Putulbari House from a respectful distance, acknowledging its significance as a cultural and supernatural landmark in Kolkata.
Putulbari House, the House of Dolls, stands as a testament to the chilling tales and mysteries that lurk within Kolkata's hidden corners. Its haunting past, filled with stories of abuse, tragedy, and restless spirits, continues to captivate the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, the enigmatic aura surrounding Putulbari House is undeniable. As the years pass and the city of Kolkata evolves, the haunted legacy of Putulbari House remains a haunting reminder of the darker side of human nature and the unexplained mysteries that lie just beyond our comprehension.
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