Four-century-old Bihar temple shrouded in mystery, locals forbid sunset visits

The Maa Van Devi Temple stands in the forested borderlands between Amhārā, Rāghopūr, and Kanchānpur, roughly 35 kilometres from Patna, Bihar's capital. Local tradition holds that the shrine dates back some four centuries, making it a significant religious and cultural landmark in the region. The temple's isolated location within dense woodland has contributed to its enigmatic reputation among pilgrims and visitors.

According to local custom, devotees are discouraged from visiting the temple after sunset, a restriction rooted in the folklore surrounding the sacred site. The legends associated with Maa Van Devi and the forest temple have captured widespread cultural interest, extending beyond regional religious circles.

The temple's mystique has reached the Hindi film industry, with its lore serving as inspiration for the Bollywood production "The Vvaan: Force of the Forest," featuring actors Siddhārth Malhotrā and Tamannah Bhātia. The film's creation underscores the enduring appeal of India's lesser-known temples and the folkloric narratives woven into their histories.

The shrine continues to attract devotees seeking spiritual solace while drawing the curiosity of those intrigued by its historical significance and the cultural traditions that have preserved its mysteries across generations.