Mahabhairab Temple is located in Tezpur, Assam, on a small hilltop close to the Brahmaputra River.
The current structure of this temple was built by Nag Baba, and later, Mahadeo Bharati and his devotees developed it. The original temple was destroyed in the 1897 earthquake, and the present temple was constructed in the early 20th century.
Mahabhairav is a fierce form of Lord Shiva associated with destruction, protection, and supreme power. He is a manifestation of Bhairava, known for his wrathful nature and role as a guardian of cosmic law. Mahabhairav is often depicted with a terrifying appearance, holding weapons, symbolizing time and death, and is worshipped for protection from evil forces.
The temple follows the traditional Assamese style of temple architecture. The sanctum houses a massive Shiva Lingam, which is made of stone and is worshipped with great devotion. The structure has a dome-shaped roof, and the temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to other deities.
Mahabhairab Temple is believed to have been built during the early medieval period by the kings of the Salasthamba dynasty. It is said that the Ahom rulers later renovated the temple. The temple has withstood the test of time and remains an important pilgrimage site for Shaivites.
Mahabhairab Temple in Tezpur is deeply connected to Hindu legends, particularly the stories of King Banasura, Lord Shiva, and Lord Krishna. The temple’s origin is believed to date back to the Dwapara Yuga and has a significant place in the Shaivite tradition.
According to ancient legends, King Banasura, the powerful Asura ruler of Tezpur (then known as Sonitpur), was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. His unwavering devotion pleased Shiva, who granted him the boon of invincibility. Banasura established the Mahabhairab Temple and installed a massive Shiva Lingam, which is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu).
Banasura had a beautiful daughter named Usha, who fell in love with Aniruddha, the grandson of Lord Krishna. With the help of her friend Chitralekha, Usha secretly brought Aniruddha to Sonitpur. However, when Banasura discovered this, he imprisoned Aniruddha in his palace.
When Lord Krishna came to rescue his grandson, a great battle took place between Krishna and Banasura. Banasura, protected by Lord Shiva’s boon, was a formidable opponent. Seeing this, Krishna invoked Sudharshana Chakra, and a fierce battle between Krishna and Shiva took place. Ultimately, Lord Krishna, respecting Shiva’s blessing, did not kill Banasura but cut off all but four of his thousand arms, humbling him.
After realizing his mistake, Banasura surrendered to Krishna and was forgiven. It is believed that after the war, Shiva continued to reside in the form of the Mahabhairab Lingam at the temple.
Devotees believe that the Shiva Lingam at Mahabhairab Temple is extremely powerful and has divine energy. It is said to grow on its own, signifying its eternal presence.
The most significant festival celebrated at Mahabhairab Temple is Maha Shivaratri, which attracts thousands of devotees from different parts of the country. Special pujas, bhajans, and night-long rituals are performed during this festival.
