This question is associated with Indian religious traditions and mythological beliefs, in which Lord Kaal Bhairav is worshiped as the ruthless form of Lord Shiva and the Lord of his ganas. Let us know why Kaal Bhairav is worshiped before Shiva and what is the legend behind it.
Who is Kaal Bhairav?
Kaal Bhairav is considered a fierce and protector form of Lord Shiva. He is the god of time (time) and justice, who destroys evil, iniquity and ignorance. According to Hindu belief, whenever a devotee goes to a holy pilgrimage or Shiva temple, it is necessary to worship Kaal Bhairav before worshiping Lord Shiva there.
Legendary story – Why is the first time of worship of Bhairav?
A famous story is found in Shiva Mahapuran and Kalpavriksha Mahatmya: Once in ancient times there was a dispute over the superiority between Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh (Shiva). At that time, Brahma ji started telling himself paramount. Brahma ji condemned Lord Shiva by taking Panchmukhi form. Seeing this, Shiva got angry and he produced Kaal Bhairav with his third eye. Kaal Bhairav cut one face of Brahma. Although Brahma ji was immortal, one of his five faces was destroyed. After this Lord Shiva declared Kaal Bhairav as ‘Kotwal of Kashi’ and gave him the role of the protector of all the pilgrimages. This is the reason that even today it is considered mandatory to see Kaal Bhairav before entering Kashi (Varanasi).
Why do you worship Kaal Bhairav before Shiva?
Permission Pujan: Kaal Bhairav is considered the protector of Shiva temples. It is believed that the worship of Lord Shiva is considered incomplete until Kaal Bhairav is allowed.
Defense of devotees: Kaal Bhairav protects devotees, especially at night. Therefore, it is necessary to worship Bhairav first in the night Shiva worship.
Magistrate form: He has been said to be the one who follows religion and destroys unrighteousness. They are also worshiped first to maintain discipline in temples.
Kaal Bhairav Jayanti and Special Puja
Kaal Bhairav is worshiped specially on Kaal Bhairav Ashtami. This day is believed to be their appearance and on this day Tantric practices, Bhairav mantras and lamp donation have special significance.
Major Kaal Bhairav Temple in India
Kaal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain – This is one of the most famous temples where alcohol is offered to Kaal Bhairav.
Kashi Kaal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi
Bhairav Baba Temple, Delhi
