Bhairava, sometimes known as Kala Bhairava, is a Hindu deity, a fierce
manifestation of Shiva associated with annihilation. He is often
depicted with frowning, angry eyes and sharp, tiger's teeth and flaming
hair; stark naked except for garlands of skulls and a coiled snake about
his neck.
In his four hands he carries a noose, trident, drum, and skull. He is often shown accompanied by a dog. He originated in Hindu mythology and is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains alike. He is worshipped in Nepal, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand. The origin of Bhairava can be traced to a conversation between Brahma and Vishnu recounted in the Shiv Mahapuran, in which Vishnu inquired of Brahma, "Who is the supreme creator of the Universe?". And arrogantly, Brahma told Vishnu to worship him as Supreme Creator.
One day Brahma thought, "I have five heads, Shiva also has five heads. I can do everything that Shiva does and therefore I am Shiva". Brahma had become a little egotistic. Not only had he became egotistic, he started to forge the work of Shiva. Brahma started interfering in what Shiva was supposed to do. A furious Mahadeva (Shiva) threw a small nail from His finger, which
assumed the form of Kala Bhairava, and casually went to cut the fifth
head of Brahma. Brahma Kapala in the hands of Kala Bhairava symbolizes
destruction of Brahma’s ego.In the form of the Kaala Bhairava, Shiva is said to be guarding each of
these Shaktipeeths. Each Shaktipeeth temple is accompanied by a temple
dedicated to Bhairava.You may find it astonishing and unbelievable but there is a temple of Shri Kaal Bhairav in Ujjain city in Madhya Pradesh State of India where liqueur is offered as ‘chadhava’ (offerings). This is one of the most active and happening temple in the Ujjain city.
Daily, hundreds of people come over here with faith and reverence to
offer Liquor to the God.The interesting thing about this temple is that the God is offered
liquor unlike other temples to invoke divine blessings. Small and big
liquor bottles and other puja items are available outside the temple
and devotees buy it and offer to god.
This temple ritual starts with the devotee buying a bottle of wine or
hard liquor like rum or whisky and presenting to the deity. The bottle
is handed over to the priest along with other puja material. The priest
opens the bottle and put half of the contents into a shallow plate
which is placed near the mouth of the idol . Slowly, the liqueur level
starts going down and the Priest takes back the plate when all the
liquor is finished. The contents of the plate disappears in front of
your eyes. It may sound unbelievable, but it is true..
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