Jagmohan Singh: The master craftsman behind over 250 traditional Gharats

In the picturesque regions of Rajgarh and Renuka in Sirmaur, where modernity threatens the existence of traditional watermills, one man’s dedication keeps the ancient art alive. Jagmohan Singh, affectionately known as the ‘Gharat Engineer,’ has crafted over 250 gharats (watermills) in the last 40 years, preserving a vital part of local heritage.

Jagmohan, hailing from Chhogtali village, has perfected the skill of building gharaats using the flowing waters of rivers and streams. Unlike flour ground in electric mills, which is often deemed unhealthy, flour from a gharaat is considered beneficial. Jagmohan can construct a new gharaat for just 20,000 rupees, despite the decreasing water levels in rivers and streams.

Ingeniously, he has developed a method to operate gharaats with just half an inch of water. By channeling water through pipes and using a high-speed nozzle, he ensures the wooden turbine spins efficiently, even under low pressure. The key is maintaining a pipe height of 30-40 feet.

Jagmohan’s commitment is unwavering; if a mill doesn’t run with half an inch of water, he refuses payment. His efforts not only save the mills but also provide him with a livelihood. Despite lacking formal education, Jagmohan’s childhood spent crafting mills by streams has blossomed into a lifelong passion.

He sources the finest stones for his gharaats from near Haloni bridge in Rajgarh, carving them with precision. Remarkably, he completes a new gharaat in about two weeks, charging a modest fee of 20,000 rupees. His work is impeccable, with none of his gharaats ever failing.

Jagmohan Singh’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of traditional craftsmanship and the vital role it plays in sustaining local culture and health.