Stories from the narrow paths of Landour, Ruskin Bond's sanctuary
The Tribune brings you exclusive insights into the enchanting hill station of Landour, a cantonment town in Mussoorie, India's Himalayan region, famously known as the home of renowned author Ruskin Bond.
A Town Steeped in History and Literature
Ruskin Bond, born in 1934 in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh, spent much of his childhood in Mussoorie and Landour. Despite a brief stint in England, he chose to settle permanently in Mussoorie near Landour after India’s independence, finding a strong emotional and creative attachment to these hills.
Landour: A Literary Haven
Landour is synonymous with Ruskin Bond's literary identity. His residence near Ivy Cottage in Landour is a popular attraction for admirers, symbolising his deep roots in the town. Another notable landmark is the Landour Clock Tower, initially built in the late 1930s during British rule and rebuilt in 2016 due to public demand and support from residents like Bond.
The Timeless Charm of Landour
Landour's colonial architecture, peaceful forests, and Himalayan views provide the picturesque backdrop that characterises much of Bond's literary work. The town, with its timeless charm, has been featured in Ruskin Bond's stories, poems, and essays.
Member-Only Benefits
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A Sandal-Maker's Bench
Nestled amongst the cobblestone lanes of Landour, a sandal-maker's shop offers a glimpse into the town's traditional craftsmanship. One sunny day, a visitor found themselves mourning the lost seconds as they sat on the bench outside the shop, watching the sandal-maker craft a pair of sandals on the floor of his shop.
Antique Wonders in Landour
Adjacent to the sandal-maker's shop lies an antique shop, old enough to hold stories from the time of the visitor's grandparents or even earlier. For those seeking a piece of Landour's rich history, this shop is a treasure trove of artefacts from the past.
Exploring Landour: A Journey Through Time
As you wander through the cemented lanes of Landour, you can almost hear the echoes of Ruskin Bond's stories. The town's timeless charm, steeped in history and literature, offers a unique experience that transcends time.
[1] Ruskin Bond: A Life in Stories [2] Ruskin Bond: A Lifetime of Travel [3] The Best of Ruskin Bond [4] Landour: Requiem for a Hill Station [5] Ruskin Bond's Landour
