Restoration of Dalim Lepcha Fort: A Historic Leap for Lepcha Heritage

KalimNews, November 9, 2024, Kalimpong : The West Bengal Heritage Commission (WBHC) has announced a landmark initiative to restore and preserve the historic Dalim Lepcha Fort, located in the Gorubathan region of Kalimpong. This ancient fort, also known as Daling Fort, was built by the last Lepcha King, Pano Gaeboo Achyok, and serves as a symbol of the Lepcha dynasty's resistance and resilience. The restoration initiative has been warmly welcomed by the local community and is expected to rekindle interest in the region’s rich cultural history.

Nestled atop Dalim Hill in Gorubathan, the Dalim Fort, locally known as Dalim Gari, The ruins of Dalim Fort cover 1.5 acres of flat land, featuring a robust 16-foot-high wall enclosing four rooms. The 8-foot-thick walls, crafted with precision and strength, are equipped with small communication holes connecting the rooms, showcasing remarkable architectural ingenuity. The fort, strategically perched atop Dalim Hill, was designed for defense, with its plateau-like landform allowing defenders to repel invaders effectively. It speak of a time when architecture was both an art and a defense mechanism. Inside these walls are small, cleverly designed holes, allowing communication between the fort’s four separate rooms, showcasing the ingenuity of 17th-century Lepcha architects.

Strategically perched on a plateau-like hilltop, the fort's location was no coincidence. It was designed to withstand invasions, with steep terrain preventing enemy advances. From this vantage point, defenders could launch arrows, hurl stones, and roll heavy wooden logs to thwart invaders. The fort's construction at such a height symbolized the Lepchas’ determination to safeguard their land.

Historical Overview of Dalim Lepcha Fort

The Fort and Its Strategic Importance

Dalim Fort, located near the Indo-Bhutan border, holds significant historical and cultural importance for the Lepcha community. It served as a strategic stronghold in the 17th century, offering protection against Bhutanese invasions. The fort was an essential part of a network of defenses, with its most dramatic chapter linked to the valiant Lepcha ruler, King Gaeboo Achyok.

The Tragic Demise of King Gaeboo Achyok

King Gaeboo Achyok is remembered for his military acumen and resistance against Bhutanese forces. His final battle began with an urgent message carried through the Lepcha’s innovative Pu Patek system—a communication method using bamboo ropes. The message warned of an imminent Bhutanese invasion, prompting the king to rush from Damsang Fort to Dalim Fort with his army.

The Bhutanese forces, led by Prime Minister Ashik Dugey, camped near present-day Ambiok, seemingly offering peace. Trusting their intentions, King Achyok dismissed his army and welcomed the Bhutanese delegation. However, during a celebratory feast, Dugey betrayed the king, fatally stabbing him and severing his head. The Bhutanese forces then overpowered the remaining Lepcha defenders.

A Headless King and Mystical Folklore

According to local folklore, King Achyok’s severed head mysteriously flew through the air and landed near the Chel River, now called Bhutaydaha. Haunted by this supernatural event, Ashik Dugey allegedly took his own life the same night. This tale adds a layer of mysticism to the historical tragedy, symbolizing divine retribution and the king’s enduring spiritual presence.

The Aftermath and Bhutanese Occupation

The fall of Dalim Fort marked a significant loss for the Lepchas, who were stripped of their last bastion of independence. The Bhutanese occupation of Kalimpong began, subjecting the Lepcha community to foreign rule until the British annexed the region in 1865. Despite this shift in power, the Lepchas continued to struggle for their cultural and political identity.

Legacy and Modern Relevance

Today, Kalimpong remains a vital center for the Lepcha community, though they often face marginalization. The ruins of Dalim Fort stand as a testament to their resilience and the sacrifices made for sovereignty. Beyond its historical significance, the fort symbolizes the Lepchas' enduring connection to their heritage and ongoing efforts to preserve their unique identity.

Dalim Fort awaits restoration, embodying both the glory and tragedy of Lepcha history. It serves as a powerful reminder of a community’s determination to maintain their cultural legacy in the face of adversity.

Restoration Plans and Community Impact

The decision to restore and preserve the fort has been hailed as a significant step towards recognizing the rich cultural heritage of the Lepcha community. The West Bengal Mayel Lyang Lepcha Development Board, which was established by the Mamata Banerjee government in 2012 for the socio-economic development and cultural conservation of the Lepcha people, has been a key advocate for this initiative.

Former board chairman Lyangsong Tamsang had previously submitted a proposal to the government for the restoration of the fort, which led to the current restoration plans. The fort, along with the surrounding landscape, is expected to become an important heritage site, attracting visitors from around the world, especially those from the global Lepcha diaspora.

S.P. Sharma, a spokesperson for the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), noted that the restoration of Dalim Fort will bring new attention to the Lepcha community’s history and culture. “This initiative will not only draw thousands of people from the Lepcha community worldwide but also offer a unique tourism opportunity for Kalimpong,” Sharma said. “The fort’s conservation will help preserve an important part of our history.”

In addition to Dalim Fort, the West Bengal Heritage Commission has also recognized other properties in Kalimpong as heritage sites, including Chitra Bhanu (an art gallery), the Catherine Graham Memorial Chapel, and Gouripur House. 

A Cultural Renaissance for the Lepcha Community

Dalim Fort’s restoration is more than a physical revival; it symbolizes a cultural renaissance for the Lepcha community. Alongside other recognized heritage sites in Kalimpong, such as Chitra Bhanu and the Catherine Graham Memorial Chapel, the fort will become a beacon of Lepcha resilience and history.

The restoration process, set to commence shortly, promises to bring economic opportunities through increased tourism and foster a deeper appreciation of the Lepcha people's indomitable spirit. As the fort rises anew, it will stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of King Gaeboo Achyok and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Kalimpong.

A New Chapter for Lepcha Heritage

The decision to preserve Dalim Lepcha Fort is seen as a major milestone in the recognition and conservation of the Lepcha cultural heritage. The restoration work, expected to begin soon, is not just about preserving a physical structure but also about honoring the legacy of the Lepcha community and its contribution to the history of the Kalimpong hills.

The fort’s restoration is also expected to bring a boost to local tourism, offering new opportunities for the local economy while fostering greater awareness of the region’s rich cultural history. As the restoration process progresses, the fort will continue to stand as a symbol of the resilience and heritage of the Lepcha people.