Kal Bhairav Temple
Kal Bhairav Temple: A Sacred Shrine in Ujjain with Unique Rituals
Kal Bhairav Temple, located in the holy city of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Kal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. This ancient temple holds deep spiritual significance and is visited by devotees from across the country. The temple is known for its unique ritual of offering liquor to Kal Bhairav as part of the prayers, making it a truly one-of-a-kind spiritual experience.
History and Legend of Kal Bhairav Temple
The temple’s origins are linked to the Skanda Purana, which describes Kal Bhairav as a powerful guardian deity. According to legend, Kal Bhairav is the protector of Ujjain and watches over the city and its temples. It is believed that Kal Bhairav was created by Lord Shiva to destroy ego and negativity. Devotees come here to seek his blessings for protection, strength, and the removal of obstacles in life.
Unique Ritual: Offering Liquor
One of the most intriguing aspects of this temple is the ritual of offering liquor to the deity. Devotees bring bottles of liquor, which the temple priests pour into a bowl placed near the idol’s mouth. It is believed that Kal Bhairav accepts the offering as a form of devotion and blesses the devotees in return.
Kal Bhairav’s temple has a unique way of worship that only the devotees there can participate in getting drunk on alcohol. They begin by sitting near the idol of Bhairav and reciting mantras, then offering a small cup of liquor to Baba’s mouth. What’s astonishing is that the entire cup gets emptied within two minutes, even though there are no visible openings in the idol’s mouth. It’s a mystery where the alcohol ends up.
Kal Bhairav Wear a Special Turban
The Turban on Lord Kalbhairav’s statue is said to have brought victory to the Scindia family during a time of great struggle. Legend has it that his Turban fell off when King Mahadji Scindia sought refuge with Lord Kalbhairav from his enemies. He then offered his Turban to Lord Kalbhairav and prayed for victory, which he eventually achieved after driving out all his enemies. Since then, Kaal Bhirav has worn Turban on behalf of the royal family of Gwalior, and it still holds great importance.
Temple Timings
- Opening Time: 5:00 AM
- Closing Time: 9:00 PM
The temple remains open throughout the day, allowing devotees to visit and seek blessings at their convenience.
Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: 6:00 PM
The aarti is a divine experience that fills the atmosphere with spiritual energy. Devotees gather during these times to chant prayers and connect with the deity.
How to Reach Kal Bhairav Temple
The temple is located about 8 km from the Ujjain Railway Station and is well-connected by local transport like taxis and auto-rickshaws. The nearest airport is in Indore, approximately 60 km away.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kal Bhairav Temple is during festivals like Kalashtami and Mahashivratri, which are celebrated with great devotion. The temple is beautifully decorated during these occasions, and special rituals are performed.
Why Visit Kal Bhairav Temple?
Kal Bhairav Temple offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and devotion. Whether you seek protection, strength, or peace of mind, visiting this temple is a deeply fulfilling experience. The vibrant energy of the temple, coupled with its unique rituals, makes it a must-visit destination in Ujjain.
Plan your visit to Kal Bhairav Temple and experience the divine blessings of Lord Shiva’s fiercest form.
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