Tamas River is the largest tributary of the Yamuna and flows
through Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, touching Himachal Pradesh. Today, the
river is popularly known as Tons. A popular story in the Garhwal region
indicates that the origin of the Tamas River is associated with Barbareek,
grandson Pandav Bhim and son of Ghatotkachch.
Legend has it that the word about Mahabharata battle spread
around the world and Barbareek too came to hear about it. He wanted to participate
in the battle but he will only take the side of the loser.
Barbareek then set out to reach Kurukshetra on his way he
met Arjuna and Krishna who were disguise – in the form of Saints.
They were on the look out for great warriors.
When Barbareek displayed his talent in
archery, Krishna knew that he was capable of overrunning any
opposition. But Barbareek said he would only join the side that will be losing
the great battle. Krishna knew that Kauravas were destined to be
defeated and Barbareek joining them was not good for Pandavas.
Krishna then played a trick. He said that there is no
doubt that you are courageous but what about the qualities like performing
charity etc. Barbareek said that he can ask him anything and he will give it in
charity.
Krishna then asked for his head in charity, which
Barbareek agreed without any difficulty.
It is said that the head of Barbareek was placed atop a hill
near the Kurukshetra and Barbareek watched the entire Mahabharata war from
there.
But
he was unhappy to see the Kauravas getting defeated. He shed his tears. The
local people in the Garhwal region believe that Barbareek's tears still flow.
It is those tears of intense, helpless, uncontrollable sorrow, that now make
the river Tamas or Tons. That is why the water from this river is never
drunk.