Know About the Siddh Temples of Bhairav in India and the Eight Forms of Bhairav

Lord Kaal Bhairav is regarded as an incarnation of Rudra. In Kaliyuga, worshipping Lord Bhairav is believed to bring success in all endeavors. His worship is said to eliminate negativity and yield immediate results. One of his titles is “Kshetrapal,” which means the protector of all four directions. While temples dedicated to Lord Bhairav can be found in every village, we will focus on the most renowned Siddh (powerful) temples of Lord Bhairav.

Kaal Bhairav in Kashi

The largest temple dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav in India is located in Kashi, also known as Varanasi. Here, Kal Bhairav is referred to as the “Kashi Ka Kotwal” (the guardian of Kashi). According to some beliefs, it is essential to worship Kal Bhairav and seek his permission before visiting Kashi. The Kal Bhairav temple in Kashi is considered one of the most powerful Bhairav temples. On Sundays, the temple is filled with devotees. A popular legend states that when Kal Bhairav severed one of Brahma’s heads at Lord Shiva’s command, it became stuck in his hand. When Kal Bhairav arrived in Kashi with the head, it detached on its own. It is said that the energy of Baba Kaal Bhairav can be profoundly felt at this temple.

Kaal Bhairav Temple in Ujjain

The Kal Bhairav temple in Ujjain is renowned for its mysterious powers. Devotees experience the divine energy of Lord Bhairav here. It is believed that alcohol is offered to Lord Bhairav in this temple. A glass of alcohol is presented to Baba Bhairav, and when it is placed near his mouth, it mysteriously vanishes. This phenomenon is regarded as a divine miracle. The temple is also known for its tantric practices. In the past, the temple followed the tradition of offering animal sacrifices along with alcohol, which has since been discontinued. However, the practice of offering alcohol continues, leaving the mystery of its disappearance unsolved.

Kilkari Kaal Bhairav, New Delhi

The temple of Shri Kilkari Baba Bhairav Nath Ji is a historical site dating back to the Pandava era. It is believed that after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas established this temple. Legends say that it was here that Bhima acquired his spiritual powers. The ancient temple consists of two sections: the Dudhya Bhairav Temple, where milk is offered, and the Kilkari Bhairav Temple, where alcohol is presented. The statues within the temple are crafted from marble. Lord Bhairav is regarded as a source of immense power, attracting many individuals interested in tantric practices.

Branches of Bhairav Worship

Over the years, the worship of Bhairav has evolved into two primary forms: Bhatuk Bhairav and Kal Bhairav. Bhatuk Bhairav is known for his gentle and protective demeanor, while Kal Bhairav is recognized as a fierce enforcer who oversees criminal activities. Kal Bhairav is often referred to as the youthful incarnation of Bhairavnath, whereas Bhatuk Bhairav is seen as his child form.

The Eight Forms of Bhairav in Scriptures
The Tantras describe eight forms of Bhairav, which include:

Asitang Bhairav
Rudra Bhairav
Chanda Bhairav
Krodha Bhairav
Unmatta Bhairav
Kapali Bhairav
Bhishana Bhairav
Sanhara Bhairav

The Kalika Purana identifies Bhairav as a servant of Shiva, akin to Nandi, Bhringi, Mahakal, and Vetal, with a dog as his vehicle.

According to the Brahmavaivart Purana, the eight revered forms of Lord Bhairav are:

Mahabhairav
Sanhara Bhairav
Asitang Bhairav
Rudra Bhairav
Kalbhairav
Krodh Bhairav
Tamrachud Bhairav
Chandrachud Bhairav
The scripture states that worshiping these eight forms grants the blessings of the nine powers (Nav Shakti). To honor Lord Bhairav, one should perform the Chintaharan Bhairav Puja.

Know About the Siddh Temples of Kaal Bhairav in India ?