22

KATYUR—THE SWITZERLAND OF INDIA

The moment you cross the Kausani ridge you find yourself face to
face with the wide expanse of Himalayan ranges and down below
lies the famed Katyur Valley. This valley lies between the course
of Saryu and GomtL This exceedingly beautiful valley was first
described into a prosperous settlement by the Katyuris who
•shifted their capital from Katripur (Joshimath) to Baijnath-Katyar.
There is yet another important story about this place which
•narrates that in good old days there was a big lake in which
many evil spirits lived and a vicious demon was living. He made
life hell for the people of neighbouring villagers; therefore, villa-
gers gathered and prayed to Brahmari Devi for deliverance—
who kept on hovering over the lake with the result that
the rakshasa was compelled to starvation and as soon
as he came out of the lake, he was killed by the Brahmari
Devi. She also drained out the lake into Gomati and
thus the lake bed became habitable for the locals. With the
passage of time, the Katyuri kings also moved in here. Thus
the worship of Brahmari Devi has also came into prominence.
Now the main shrine of Brahmari is located at a distance of three
kilometres from Baijnath. Pujas are offered during Chaitra and
•Baisakh. Childless women come here to pray for children.