The Night of the Divine Chorus

 

Long ago, nestled in the cradle of the Bhagavati Hills, there was a quiet valley watched over by the revered Goddess Bhagavati. The people of the valley believed deeply that she protected the forest, the animals, and all who lived within its reach. Her temple stood at the feet of the highest hill, surrounded by dense woods and veiled in an air of mystique.

It was said that on every full moon and new moon, strange yet enchanting sounds would echo through the valley—prayers and chants so divine they could not have come from humans alone. The villagers believed it was the Yakshas and Yakshinis, celestial spirits of the forest, who took human form and gathered in the temple to worship the goddess under the moonlight.

One such full moon night, a villager named Oorjit was returning home late. The forest loomed large and dark around him, and every shadow seemed alive with the eyes of wild creatures. Fear tightened his chest as he ran through the woods, whispering silent prayers to Bhagavati with each step.

As he neared the temple, a soft glow lit the path ahead. To his surprise, he heard harmonious chanting—many voices singing praises to the goddess. Drawn by the sound, Oorjit peeked inside the temple. It was filled with people, all dressed in white, their faces serene, their voices in perfect unison.

They smiled and welcomed him. Overwhelmed with awe and gratitude, he joined them. Together, they sang prayers through the night, and Oorjit felt an otherworldly peace settle over him.

At dawn, exhausted but content, he dozed off by the temple’s threshold.

When he woke, the sun was high and the temple was silent—completely empty. Not a single soul in sight. Bewildered, he stepped outside. The forest was quiet, calm. Not a trace remained of the night's gathering.

Oorjit walked home, his heart full of wonder and reverence. He believed—no, he knew—that Goddess Bhagavati had heard his prayers and sent her divine spirits to protect him.

And from that day forward, he became a devout guardian of her temple, sharing his tale with others, ensuring the legend of the Night of the Divine Chorus lived on.

 

 

Omkar Hosalli

English Language Teacher

GHS Hullati