he world of Hindu folklore and mythology is a fascinating, charming, and diverse one. There are legends and folklore connected to every sacred location and divinity. Neither the accuracy nor the arguments are challenged. It’s just accepted. There are several unusual temples with distinct religious practices all around the nation. One such temple is the Latu temple in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, where the priests worship the deity while covering their lips and eyes with blindfolds. In addition, the locals in this area also go a considerable distance. But they stand and revere the temple. This temple is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at a location called Van in the Dewal block. In the state, a location known as Latu Temple is used to worship the Latu God.
People make vows here and present bells, conch shells, and other items when their desires are fulfilled. Here, Latu is considered a God by everyone. It is forbidden for common people to access the temple’s sanctum sanctorum. The priest enters after bandaging his eyes, nose, and ears. It is said that if one lamp is lighted inside, hundreds more will follow suit. Some people also think that the serpent deity, whose eyes sparkle from the jewel, is present within. People are not allowed to enter open-eyed because they might get scared of the serpant. Even the priest’s mouth smell cannot reach the deity. There is a dread of snakes because, based on certain folklore, going there will protect you from the venom’s effects. However, there is no clear evidence of such things.
Mythology claims that Latu Devta is the brother of Uttarakhand’s renowned goddess Nanda. Mother Parvati is the form of Goddess Nanda. All of Goddess Parvati’s brothers, including Latu, travelled to Mount Kailash to say goodbye to her when she got married Lord Shiva. In the meantime, Latu Devta came into a cottage while he was thirsty and aimlessly searching for water. In the hut, there were two pots kept together, one holding water and the other alcohol. After unintentionally consuming alcohol, Latu began to create havoc. Mother Parvati, grew angry at this and cursed that he be bound and placed in a jail. Latu expressed regret and apologized after acknowledging his mistake. Subsequently, Mother Nanda Devi announced that Latu would have a temple in Van village, where he would be worshipped annually on the full moon day of the Vaishakh month. It is thought that on the full moon day of Vaishakh, the deity Latu, who is worshipped there, is imprisoned in the shape of a serpent.
The twelveth destination of the longest annual pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, the Rajjat Yatra, is Van village. It is led by Shri Nanda Devi. Because seeing the gem may result in blindness, the priest enters the temple wearing a blindfold, and worshippers stand 75 feet away from the temple to offer prayers. The Latu Devta temple in Van only opens its doors once a year. This day several festivals are held. Even, a huge fair is organized
