Black Magic Capital of India: Mayong (2024)

Are the tales of black magic intriguing to you? Do you believe in the mystique of witchcraft or magic and its potential effects? Are you fascinated by wizards? I used to steer clear of discussions involving witches, ghosts, wizards, and black magic. That changed late last year when I had the opportunity to explore the enigmatic village of Mayong, renowned as the Black Magic Capital of India.

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About Mayong

Mayong, also known as Mayang, is a village on the banks of the River Brahmaputra in Assam, India. Renowned for its rich history, Mayong holds a distinctive reputation for being a centre of black magic and witchcraft in the country.

Fascinatingly, there is no documented history explaining the origin of magic or black magic in Mayong village. However, the village is steeped in numerous stories related to these practices. Presently, Mayong boasts over 100 magicians, though not all engage in black magic; instead, they are proficient in performing various simple tricks.

Were you aware that practitioners of black magic in the village are referred to as Bez or Ojaa? It is believed that these individuals had ghosts as their mystical assistants.

History of Mayong

Name

The origin of the name “Mayong” is surrounded by various intriguing tales. One narrative suggests that it stems from the Sanskrit word ‘Maya,’ meaning magic or illusion. Another story proposes that the village served as a residence for the Moirang clan from Manipur, leading to its vocabulary. Additionally, a narrative links Mayong to the Dimasa word ‘Miyong,’ which translates to elephant.

Human Sacrifices

During the early modern period, Mayong is thought to have been a site for human sacrifices and witchcraft, particularly in the worship of Goddess Shakthi. Archaeologists have unearthed weapons associated with these sacrifices, potentially dating back to the Ahom era.

The practice of witchcraft not only prevailed in Mayong but was also transmitted to succeeding generations.

Mahabharata

Ancient scriptures provide evidence of references to Mayong and Assam in the mythological tale of Mahabharata. Chief Ghatotkacha of the Kachari Kingdom showcased his magical abilities during his participation in the Great Battle of Mahabharata.

Other Legends

According to one legend, mastery of the ‘urban mantra’ enables individuals to soar through the air and reach their true love. Another tale suggests that wizards and witches have long concealed themselves within the depths of the Mayong forest. Numerous stories recount instances of men vanishing, tigers being tamed, and people undergoing transformations into animals.

Witch Hunting

Mayong faced a significant issue with witch-hunting during the early 2000s, resulting in the unjust branding and killing of numerous individuals, primarily women. To address this problem, a new Act was enacted in the state of Assam.

The Act stipulates that anyone accusing and labelling someone as a witch could face imprisonment for up to seven years and a fine of 5 lakhs of rupees. For further details on the Act, you can refer to the article published on India Today.

How to Get to Mayong?

By Road

Mayong village is located approximately 40 kilometres (1.5 hours drive) from the city of Guwahati. The closest airport is ‘Guwahati International Airport’ in Guwahati city. The nearest railway station is Jagi Road Railway Station, which is about 28 kilometers (1 hour drive) from the village.

Best Time to Visit Mayong

The optimal period to explore this region of India is during the winter season, characterized by pleasant and cool weather. Winter in India spans from November to February.

Things to See and Do in Mayong

Recognized as the epicentre of black magic, Mayong stands out as a must-visit tourist destination in Assam. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into its rich history and the world of black magic. Here are some activities to engage in while exploring Mayong:

• A visit to the Central Museum and Emporium is highly recommended for an in-depth understanding of the history and tales. This museum showcases incredible artifacts and photographs related to witchcraft.
• Experience the mesmerizing magic tricks presented by the villagers. Mayong continues to be a residence for magicians, well-versed in black magic and entertaining magical performances.

• Close to the village lies the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its high concentration of Indian one-horned rhinos, making it an excellent spot for rhino sightings.
• Engage with the curious local children and residents. If fortune favours you, you might have the chance to hear captivating stories. Additionally, locals often provide palm reading and future predictions.

• Attend the annual Mayong-Pobitora Festival held in November.
• Show reverence and enjoy the sunset at a nearby temple. The temple offers breathtaking views of the River Brahmaputra, with the sun setting in the background.

My Experience and Visit to Mayong

In 2019, I had the privilege of being one of the Bodoland Ambassadors, allowing me to explore Assam and Bodoland for ten days. During this journey, I had the fascinating opportunity to visit Mayong. We engaged with a local magician who showcased various enchanting tricks. One particularly intriguing trick involved pouring water onto a newspaper while chanting a mantra. To our surprise, the newspaper remained dry, defying our expectations.

Visiting Mayong was a surreal experience I had never envisioned. Witnessing these magical feats was incredibly enjoyable and added a unique charm to my journey. Although the magician we encountered didn’t delve into tantra vidhya (knowledge), as it demands extensive preparation and guidance from his guru, the overall experience captivated me.

Is Mayong Safe for Travelers?

During my 10-day journey through Assam and Bodoland, I was pleasantly surprised by the safety of the places for travellers. The locals were friendly and welcoming and maintained a respectful distance, balancing their curiosity about visitors. In response to whether Mayong is safe for tourists, I confidently say yes.

Note: As is the case with any destination worldwide, when travelling alone, you should take precautions and trust your instincts for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Closing Notes

Exploring the Land of Dark Magic and immersing oneself in the local tales is an incredibly fascinating experience. These narratives weave enchanting stories about magic and wizards, reminiscent of those typically encountered in movies. While these stories might humorously challenge even Harry Potter, a beloved series I hold dear, I must confess it’s all in good fun. Regardless, I wholeheartedly recommend including this village on your bucket list and visiting it.

Even for those who may not believe in magic, the allure of witnessing small magical tricks and savouring the breathtaking sunset views at the temple is sure to make the visit enjoyable.

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References

• Story behind Mayong
• Into the land of dark magic
• Who will hunt the Witch hunter?

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