The Tale of Phyoli Rauteli and Bhupu Raut
Once upon a time, in a charming village named Sori Kot, lived a beautiful girl named Phyoli Rauteli, cherished dearly by her father, Nagu Sauriyal, as his only child.
Each morning, while her father engaged in worship of their family deity, Phyoli was lost in dreams of her prince charming. The first rays of the sun accentuated her beauty, with her lips glowing brighter than the setting sun and her mountain-like features adding to her allure.
One day, Phyoli went out to fetch water, accompanied by her friends. After filling their pots, her friends returned home, but Phyoli lingered to bathe. As she was filling her vessel, she noticed an unusual reflection in the water. When she turned around, no one was there. Looking up, she saw a handsome young man sitting on a tree branch, weaving a garland of flowers.
The young man introduced himself, saying, “My name is Bhupu Raut. Do you know me?” Phyoli responded, “Yes, your father has his eyes on our village. Why are you here?” Bhupu explained that he was in search of love and friendship. He then took out his flute and began playing, enchanting Phyoli with its melodious tunes.
Phyoli was mesmerized by Bhupu’s music. He adorned her with a garland of flowers he had crafted himself and, while decorating her hair with blossoms, made silent vows of eternal companionship.
As the sun set, Phyoli realized that the entire day had passed. She hurried home, but her father was furious when he saw the flowers in her hair and around her neck. Upon asking the reason for her delay, Phyoli told him about Bhupu. Her father, enraged, forbade her from seeing Bhupu again. Phyoli, determined and defiant, declared she would sacrifice her life rather than marry anyone but Bhupu. Her father, overwhelmed by anger, pushed her, causing her to fall and die.
The news of Phyoli’s death left her father heartbroken and devastated. While he mourned, Phyoli’s spirit ascended to the heavenly realm. The gods, moved by her fate, granted her a blessing: that she would never be forgotten on Earth. In the month of Chaitra, people would worship her, sing songs in her honor, and dedicate offerings to her.
On Earth, a yellow flower named “Phyoli” sprouted, commemorating her memory. This flower, still renowned in Uttarakhand, symbolizes love and devotion. Its fragrance and beauty keep the legend of Phyoli and Bhupu alive.
Thus, the love story of Phyoli and Bhupu became an eternal tale, illustrating that true love’s power can be extraordinary. Phyoli’s sacrifice and Bhupu’s genuine affection teach that love and devotion know no bounds. This story remains a vibrant part of Uttarakhand’s folklore, offering a timeless experience of the profound essence of love and dedication.
