The ancient and holy city Kashi, also known as the city of Vishwanath, is famous for its countless religious stories and mythological importance. There is a Kotwal seated in this city, which not only protects Kashi, but also records the account of every person in his register. That is – Baba Kaal Bhairav, who is worshiped as the fiery form of Lord Shiva.
Why is Kaal Bhairav called Kashi’s Kotwal?
In the Skanda Purana and other mythology, Kaal Bhairav is mentioned as the form of anger of Lord Shiva. According to religious beliefs, once a battle of superiority broke out between Brahma and Vishnu. The angry Shiva cut the head of Brahma through his fiery form Kaal Bhairav. Kaal Bhairav committed sin due to this crime and murder and came to Kashi for liberation. Here his sin was washed away by bathing in the Ganges river. This place is known as ‘Kapal Mochan Tirtha’.
For this reason Lord Vishwanath appointed Kaal Bhairav as Kotwal of Kashi. His role has been to maintain law and order in Kashi and punish sinners. Religious belief is that no one can enter Kashi without their permission. For this reason, he is called the real patron and protector of Kashi.
Importance of Visiting Kotwal of Kashi
According to Jyotishacharya and Pandit Rajendra Pandey of Kashi, the visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple is considered complete only when devotees first visit Kaal Bhairav. It is considered mandatory to receive their blessings. By doing this, all the problems of life such as court-court cases, disease-breath and other difficulties are relieved. Devotees believe that the journey of Kashi is successful only by the grace of Baba Kaal Bhairav.
Special things to climb
Special offering is offered in the worship of Kaal Bhairav. He loves mustard oil, vadas made of urad, blue garland and black clothes. Every Sunday, apart from Tuesday, there is a huge crowd here on Bhairav Ashtami and Mahashivaratri. Many dogs are also found around the temple, which are considered to be the ride of Baba Kaal Bhairav. Devotees cause Baba’s happiness by feeding them milk, barfi, rabri, biscuits etc.
Place of taking blessings of government and celebrities
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National President JP Nadda, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and many big politicians and film personalities also take blessings by reaching the temple of Kal Bhairav before visiting the temple of Kashi Vishwanath. This tradition is a proof that the role of Kotwal of Kashi is not only religious, but also from social and cultural terms. This temple of Kaal Bhairav of Kashi is a unique combination of religious faith and mythology, which has become an integral part of the journey of Kashi for devotees. This ancient tradition here is still alive and attracts every devotee who comes.
