India is a nation steeped in religious belief, featuring many temples and divine sites whose mysteries are often hard to comprehend. People hold deep faith and reverence for these places. One such unique temple is located in Sultanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, which opens its doors only on Tuesdays and remains locked for the rest of the week. This temple was constructed by the villagers approximately 40 years ago. Tuesdays see a significant crowd of devotees gathering here.
The temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman (Bajrangbali), is situated in Sarai Bhai village, about 10 kilometers from the Sultanpur district headquarters. Local elder Binda Prasad Chauhan shared that around four decades ago, villagers collectively decided to build a Hanuman temple on the bank of a pond. The reason for locking the temple on the remaining six days is not specified, yet devotees are welcome to visit and worship on Tuesday. The large, perennial pond behind the temple, filled with water year-round and inhabited by many fish, adds to the serene environment. Devotees believe that visiting and worshipping at this temple fulfills all their wishes.
History and community events
The decision to construct this temple was a community-driven effort, marking it as a significant local institution. Throughout the year, villagers gather in the temple courtyard to organise public recitations of the Ramcharitmanas and host large community feasts (Bhandaras). Residents from several nearby villages participate in these events, enhancing the grandeur and divinity of the temple.
Accessing the unique shrine
For those wishing to visit the Bajrangbali temple, it is located on the Raebareli Road from the Sultanpur headquarters. One must take the Bhai Bhadar route from Raebareli Road and proceed past the Bhai Bazaar. The temple is situated about 2 kilometers beyond the Bhai Bazaar, right on the roadside. Notably, a Shivling (Shiva) shrine has also been established directly across from the temple, creating a dual site for worship.
