Rediscovering the Cultural Legacy Along the Teesta River

VIDHU PRAKASH KAYASTHA

The Teesta River begins its journey from Tso Lhamo Lake, nestled at an altitude of around 5280 meters in the North Sikkim district. It serves as a significant right-bank tributary within the Brahmaputra river system. Like other prominent Himalayan rivers in India such as the Ganga, the Teesta is primarily fed by glaciers. The Pahurni Glacier and the Khangse Glacier are additionally recognized as the origins of the Teesta River. Predominantly, the river basin resides within India, with only 17% extending into Bangladesh. Renowned for its hydroelectric potential, the Teesta River plays a crucial role in powering the cities of Sikkim, making it a valuable resource for the region.

Flowing gracefully through the breathtaking landscapes of the eastern Himalayas, the Teesta River has been a silent witness to the vibrant civilization that has flourished along its banks for centuries. With a course spanning 414 kilometers, this lifeline originates from the pristine Teesta Khangtse Glacier, nestled amidst the lofty peaks of the Sikkim Himalaya, before meandering through the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal, and eventually merging with the Brahmaputra River in Bangladesh. This confluence marks its journey's end as it gracefully empties into the Bay of Bengal, leaving behind a legacy of cultural richness and historical significance.

Geographically, the Teesta River basin covers a vast expanse of 12,540 square kilometers, nurturing diverse ecosystems and supporting countless communities along its course. In India, the river winds its way through a multitude of districts and cities, including Mangan, Gangtok, Darjeeling, and Jalpaiguri, while in Bangladesh, it traverses through Lalmonirhat, Rangpur, and Kurigram, among others.

The significance of the Teesta River transcends mere geographical boundaries, as it serves as a lifeline for millions of people, sustaining agricultural livelihoods and facilitating transportation and trade. Its waters have sculpted ravines and gorges in the Himalayan terrain, creating a mesmerizing landscape that is both awe-inspiring and ecologically rich.

Among the Lepchas, a prominent ethnic group in Sikkim, a treasured folk tale is shared. This tale recounts a race between the male river Rangeet and the female river Rungnyu, where Rangeet's defeat triggers destructive rage, reshaping the land. In 2021, Ongyal Lepcha revived this tale in a song of resistance, symbolizing the river's anger against widespread hydropower development. On October 4, the song's symbolism came to life as the Rungnyu, also known as the Teesta, faced disaster. The breach of the South Lhonak glacial lake's embankments, fed by Himalayan glacier melt, unleashed torrents into the Teesta basin, causing flash floods that ravaged infrastructure. This included 14 bridges and a 1,200-megawatt hydropower dam. Government reports indicate over 100 fatalities, numerous individuals missing, and thousands displaced into relief camps.

Over the ages, the Teesta River has borne witness to the ebb and flow of civilizations, harboring vestiges of ancient settlements and cultural landmarks along its banks. Tucked amidst lush valleys, the towns of Chungthang, Singhik, and Mangan serve as enduring reminders of the longstanding human presence in this area.  On the banks of the Teesta River, indigenous communities like the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepali-speaking populace have thrived for generations, safeguarding their distinct cultural identities through time-honored customs, traditional music, dances, and skilled craftsmanship. Furthermore, the Teesta River basin is adorned with ancient monasteries, temples, and historic sites, bearing witness to the area's rich religious and architectural legacy. For instance, the Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim holds a revered status as a Buddhist pilgrimage site, while the temples in the districts of Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling showcase the architectural grandeur of the region's Hindu and Buddhist heritage.

On the Bangladeshi side of the Teesta River, communities belonging to various ethnic groups, including Bengalis, Santals, and Garos, coexist harmoniously, contributing to the cultural mosaic of the region. The Teesta River basin is vulnerable to natural calamities, including floods and landslides, particularly during the monsoon season. These events pose significant risks to communities living along its banks, emphasizing the need for sustainable disaster management strategies and infrastructure development. Furthermore, the Teesta River holds immense spiritual significance for the people of Bangladesh, with numerous shrines, mosques, and dargahs located in its vicinity. These sacred sites serve as centers of religious pilgrimage and spiritual solace, drawing devotees from far and wide.

Despite the geographical and political boundaries that divide them, the inhabitants on both sides of the Teesta River share a common bond forged by their cultural heritage and historical ties. The river serves as a unifying force, connecting communities across borders and fostering mutual respect and understanding.

(vidhukayastha@gmail.com)