Kalabhairava

Kalabhairava is a fierce form of the Hindu god Shiva, embodying time (kalā) and formidable destruction (bhairava). In Hindu cosmology, he is a manifestation of Shiva who presides over time, death, and the cremation ground, and serves as a guardian and protector for devotees, travelers, and the city of Kashi (Varanasi).

Iconographically, Kalabhairava is depicted as a dark, wrathful form of Shiva, often standing or seated, with a dog (his vehicle) at his side. He is commonly shown with a garland of skulls, a belt of severed heads, and multiple arms wielding weapons such as a trident, a drum, or a staff; his expression emphasizes transcendence of fear and ego before the inevitability of time.

Kalabhairava is widely worshipped across India, with a prominent presence in temples dedicated to Bhairava and in sites associated with Shiva. In Varanasi, Kalabhairava is regarded as the guardian of the city and a focal point of local rites for pilgrims visiting the ghats and temples. Temples dedicated to Kalabhairava or Bhairava are found in many regions, often including specific daily rites and special occasions such as Bhairava Ashtami.

Devotees seek protection, courage, and relief from fear of death, and may recite mantras such as Om Kalabhairavaya Namah or Om Kaalabhairavaya Namah. Offerings typically include flowers, fruits, vermilion, and sacred ash, and some traditions emphasize pilgrimage and ritual observances linked to time and mortality.