Kaal Bhairav Temple in Varanasi

Banaras Tour Updated on November 17, 2024October 16, 2024

Kaal Bhairava Temple in Varanasi is a famous and significant Hindu temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The Maratha king Bajirao Peshwa II is credited with building the present structure of the temple in 1817, as indicated by a stone inscription in the inner courtyard. The temple’s association with Lord Kaal Bhairav, often perceived as the divine police chief of Kashi, adds to its unique character. Kaal Bhairav is often regarded as the guardian deity of Varanasi and is associated with the protection of the city.

The mention of the large slab representing the “Nine Planets” (navagrahas) with individual representations and altars for each planetary house of the zodiac adds to the temple’s astrological and spiritual dimensions. Overall, the Kaal Bhairava Temple in Varanasi serves as a place of reverence for protection, health, and well-being, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Hindu worship and the cultural richness of Varanasi.

About Kaal Bhairava Temple

Deity: Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fearsome form of Lord Shiva, is the presiding deity of this temple. He is usually depicted with a black complexion, wearing a garland of skulls, and carrying a trident.
Fierce Aspect: Kaal Bhairav is known for his fierce and unpredictable nature. Devotees often seek his blessings for protection from negative influences, enemies, and obstacles.
Unique Rituals: The temple is known for its unique rituals and customs. One of the distinctive practices is the offering of liquor to Lord Bhairav. Devotees believe that this offering appeases the deity and brings their wishes to fruition. It is important to note that this ritual is specific to this temple and may not be followed in other Hindu temples.
Location: The Kaal Bhairav Temple is situated in the Visheshar Ganj locality of Varanasi, not far from the famous Vishwanath Temple (Kashi Vishwanath Temple). It’s an integral part of the spiritual and cultural fabric of Varanasi.
Security and Guardianship: Lord Kaal Bhairav is considered the guardian of Varanasi, and it is believed that he watches over the city and its residents. Devotees often visit the temple to seek his protection and blessings.
Significance: Kala Bhairava is believed to be the fierce form of Lord Shiva and is associated with the concept of time and destruction. Devotees worship Kala Bhairava for protection from negative influences, removal of obstacles, and the resolution of various life issues.

Kaal Bhairav Temple Architecture

The architectural style of the Kaal Bhairav Temple is reflective of the traditional temple architecture seen throughout India, with its own unique local variations and features. its spiritual and cultural significance makes it an important place of worship in Varanasi.

Entrance and Courtyard: Visitors enter the temple through a door guarded by Bhairava’s mount, the dog. Inside, there is a spacious courtyard with a central shrine dedicated to Bhairava. The shrine has a pillared and diamond-tiled porch where devotees can stand for darshana (viewing the deity).
Representation of Kala Bhairava: In the inner sanctum, only the silver face of Lord Kala Bhairava is visible through the doorway. The rest of his image, which is described as pot-bellied, seated upon a dog, and holding a trident, remains hidden behind a cloth drapery.
Priests and Rituals: The priests of the temple act on behalf of Bhairava to bestow his protection upon worshippers. They wield a club of peacock feathers, and being struck or dusted with this club is considered a blessing believed to ward off bodily sickness and pain. Devotees also receive ash (bhabhut) applied to their foreheads and given to them to take home as a protective amulet.
Protective Necklace: Worshipers are girded with a necklace (mala) made of twisted and braided black threads, which has been blessed by Bhairava. This necklace is worn around the neck or wrist as an amulet against illness or evil spirits.
Subsidiary Shrines: The temple compound features an array of subsidiary shrines dedicated to various deities, including Devi, Hanuman, Krishna and Radha, Parvati, and Ganesha.
Navagraha Representation: A large slab within the temple compound represents the “Nine Planets” (navagrahas) with individual representations and altars for each planetary house of the zodiac. This reflects the worship of astrological aspects related to health and well-being.
Temple Architecture Changes: Over the years, the temple’s architecture has undergone some changes, including the addition of marble slabs on the walls and the transformation of certain corners into store-rooms.
Main Entrance: The main entrance to the sanctum is framed by various forms of Bhairava and a form of Vishnu known as Kalamadhava, which is visited during the Shodash Vishnu yatra, a pilgrimage to sixteen forms of Vishnu.

Location: Kaal Bhairava Temple is located in near to Vishwshwaragahj, which is a bustling part of Varanasi.

Temple Timings:

Monday: 05:00 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs
Tuesday: 04:30 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs
Wednesday: 05:00 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs
Thursday: 05:00 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs
Friday: 05:00 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs
Saturday: 05:00 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs
Sunday: 04:30 Hrs to 13:00 Hrs and 15:00 Hrs to 12:00 Hrs

Conclusion: Kaal Bhairawa Temple in Varanasi is a place of profound religious and cultural significance, known for its unique worship practices and architectural features. Dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, this temple stands as a guardian and protector of the sacred city of Varanasi. A place where devotees seek protection, health, and well-being from the fearsome yet revered deity, Lord Kaal Bhairav. Its rituals, architecture, and cultural importance make it a unique and intriguing part of the spiritual landscape in the ancient city of Varanasi.

If you’re planning a visit to Varanasi and Kaal Bhairava Temple (Kala Bhairava Temple), consider booking a tour package that includes this significant temple visit. It’s a way to immerse yourself in the Holistic and cultural heritage of the city and to honor the temple as an integral part to experience the Banaras.