Sri Kilkari Bhairav Temple is one of the most ancient and unique temples dedicated to Kala Bhairava, a fierce and powerful manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple is located behind Purana Qila (Old Fort) in New Delhi and is considered one of the oldest surviving temples in the city. Devotees believe that worship at this temple protects them from evil forces and removes obstacles from life.
According to local tradition and temple belief, the shrine dates back to the Mahabharata period, making it more than *5000 years old. It is believed that the temple existed during the time when the ancient city of **Indraprastha* stood in this region.
The main deity of the temple is Kilkari Bhairava, a form of Kala Bhairava, who is worshipped as the guardian deity and protector of devotees. Bhairava is believed to destroy negative energies and safeguard dharma. The *dog*, which is the sacred vehicle of Bhairava, is also respected in the temple premises.
The temple complex consists of two important shrines dedicated to Bhairava. The architecture is simple but spiritually powerful. The sanctum houses the idol of Bhairava, where devotees offer prayers and special offerings. Over centuries, the temple structure has undergone several renovations, but the sanctity and spiritual significance remain unchanged.
The temple is believed to be associated with Bhima, one of the five Pandavas of the Mahabharata. According to legend, Bhima established the shrine after bringing the deity of Bhairava to protect the sacred rituals being performed in Indraprastha. Since then, the temple has been worshipped continuously for centuries by devotees and spiritual seekers.
According to temple tradition, when the Pandavas were performing sacred yajnas in Indraprastha, evil forces began disturbing the rituals. On the advice of Lord Krishna, Bhima travelled to Varanasi to seek the blessings of *Kala Bhairava*.
Bhairava agreed to accompany Bhima in the form of a sacred idol but instructed him not to place the idol on the ground until they reached their destination. During the journey, Bhima had to briefly place the idol on the ground near present-day Purana Qila. At that moment, the deity chose to remain there permanently. It is believed that Bhairava protected the Pandavas’ rituals with loud cries known as *“Kilkari”, which gave the temple its name **Kilkari Bhairav*.
One of the most unusual practices at this temple is the offering of liquor as prasad to Kala Bhairava. Devotees offer liquor to the deity as part of the ritual worship. The offering is then distributed among devotees as prasad. This tradition makes the temple one of the most unique Bhairava shrines in India.
The temple witnesses large gatherings of devotees during important occasions such as:
– Kalabhairava Ashtami* – the most important festival dedicated to Bhairava.
– Mahashivaratri* – celebrated with special prayers and night-long worship.
– Navaratri* – many devotees visit the temple to seek divine protection.
During these festivals, thousands of devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for protection, courage, and spiritual strength.
