वाराणस्यांभैरव: देवसंसारभयंनासंनम!
जनमजन्मस्य: कृताम्पापम्दर्शनेनविनश्यति!
The shlok which resides on the tongue-tip of every Kashi Vasi glorifies the fierce yet compassionate nature of Kaal Bhairav. How their sins get abolished with a mere image of him tells a lot about his association with this great city.
The word Bhairav is a combined form of three words Bha = creation, Ra = sustenance, Va= destruction (defining the combined nature of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh respectively).
The mythological origin of Kaal Bhairav dates back to the one-story which is the origin of many legends, from the Jyotirlinga to the four-headed Brahma and the establishment of the supremacy of Shaivism.
Story of Kaal Bhairav
The story tells that a conversation broke out between Lord Vishnu & Brahma questioning who is supreme among the three of them: Brahma – the creator, Vishnu – the sustainer, and Shiva – the destroyer. A pillar of light erupted from the earth and asked them to find out its end. Both Brahma & Vishnu started their search for the ends of the Prakash Stambh (the pillar of light/Jyotirlinga). Eventually, Vishnu surrendered to the ultimate reality but Brahma failed to do so. Yet Brahma didn’t accept his defeat and started the show of his authority. The act of Brahma made Shiva angry which resulted in the origin of the fierce form of Rudra from his hair lock when he plucked it and threw it on mighty Mandrachal.
Mighty Shiva ordered Bhairav to punish Brahma by cutting his fifth head from which he uttered the insults to Shiva.
Following the order, the fierce Kaal Bhairav cut away the 5th head of Brahma with his little fingernail. The Brahma’s head got stuck to the Bhairav’s nail and now the curse of Brahma Hatya followed him. Worried Bhairav roamed around the universe to get rid of Brahma Hatya but not even the holiest of holy tirtha helped him.
At the suggestion of Lord Vishnu, Kaal Bhairav entered the city of light: Kashi, where on the bank of Matsyodari Tirtha (present Macchodari) and Ganga the kapal(Head) of Brahma fell on earth, hence both Brahma & Kaal Bhairav got liberated and Brahma Hatya moved to Pataal. Following it, Kaal Bhairav took his penance at the Sangam of Matsyodari Tirtha & Ganga which became famous as Kapal Mochan Tirtha. Shiva pronounced that Kaal Bhairva will remain in Kashi to remove the sins of the disciple and punishment giver before the liberation of souls after which Shiva will give Taraka Mantra for Moksha.
Kapal mochan tirtha
The earlier texts suggest that it was at the Sangam of Matsyodari Tirth (present Macchodari Pond) and Ganga but during the later period, Laat Bhairav Kund became famous as Kapal Mochan Tirtha. South to the Laat Bhairav Kund, Raani Bhavani Talab is also mentioned as Kapal Mochan Tirtha but the Matsyodari Kund correlates with the factual findings.
Kaal Bhairav temple
The position of Kaal Bhairav Temple has now been moved from its original place (the Matsyodari Kund) due to frequent destruction & encroachment on the original site.
The present temple was built in mid 17th century by Maratha Army Commander Sardar Vinchurkar in the Nagra Style of temple architecture.
Kaal Bhairav is the Kotwal of Kashi, as he decides the course of punishment for residents of Kashi & without his permission, one cannot stay here or perform his duties without any obstacle. Even till now, the Government officials pay their homage irrespective of their caste, creed, and culture so that they can have a peaceful stay.
It’s important to visit Kal Bhairav temple after the darshan of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, without which the pilgrimage is believed to be incomplete.
The temple compound is filled with priests, who carry brooms made of peacock feathers. They perform rituals to wash away the bad omen from the pilgrims followed by the tying of holy threads (Ganda).
Other deities in the temple
Small temples dedicated to Nav Graha, Goddess Durga, Hanuman & Ganesha.
Important functions
Tuesday and Sunday of Every week, Bhairav Ashtami, Mahashivratri, Annakoot Festival.
Offerings
The til or mustard oil is very customary to the Bhairav apart from flowers and sweets. On special occasions, the tradition of Alcohol offering is also being performed there.
Timings
The temple remains open from 05:00 AM to 01:30 PM and from 04:30 PM to 09:30 PM.
How to Reach
K- 32/22, Bhaironath. One can easily walk from Maidagin/ Chowk to the temple.
Nearby Temples
Dandapani Bhairav Temple
Aas Bhairav Temple
Mritunjaya Mahadev Temple
Krittivasheshwar temple
Sankatha Temple
Kashi Vishwanath temple
FAQ
1. Where is the Kaal Bhairav Temple located?
The Kaal Bhairav Temple is located in the Vishweshwarganj neighborhood of Varanasi, India.
2. What are the opening hours of the temple?
The Kaal Bhairav Temple opens from 5:30 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 10:30 pm every day.
3. Is it safe to visit the Kaal Bhairav Temple?
Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but like any unfamiliar city, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
4. What is the significance of the Kaal Bhairav deity?
Kaal Bhairav is a fierce form of Lord Shiva, considered the protector of Kashi (Varanasi). He is believed to ward off evil and negative energy.
5. What are some things to keep in mind when visiting the temple?
- Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum.
- Be respectful of other devotees and maintain silence during prayers.
- Photography might be restricted in certain areas. Check for any signs or ask the temple staff.
6. Are there any festivals associated with the Kaal Bhairav Temple?
While Sundays and Tuesdays are considered auspicious days to visit, Bhairava Ashtami and Mahashivratri are the main festivals celebrated at Kaal Bhairav Temple.
7. Can I get a guide at the Kaal Bhairav Temple?
You don’t need a guide to visit Kaal Bhairav Temple you can simply ask any rickshaw to drop you at the location.
8. What are some other things to do near the Kaal Bhairav Temple?
Varanasi offers a plethora of experiences. You can explore the ghats along the Ganges River, visit other prominent temples like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, or book a guided walk to explore the city if you don’t have much time.
