BIJNOR: A large number of people visit one-of-its-kind "bhai-behen devta ka mandir" located inside the forested area of Chudiakhera village in Bijnor every year on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan and Bhai Dooj. No one knows how old this place of worship is but locals say it was built centuries ago.
According to popular legend, two young siblings were passing through the jungle when they were surrounded by bandits. This is when the brother kneeled and prayed for the safety of his sister. His prayers were heard and both turned into stone statues, which some say exist even today.
"It is believed that blessings from these siblings keep the love between brothers and sisters intact," said sevadaar of the temple, Asharam Singh, resident of Jat Nangla village. “Over a period of time even married couples started visiting the temple with the hope that their wishes will be fulfilled,” he added.
The temple now wears a modern look after multiple rounds of construction for maintenance.