Located in the Visheshwarganj area of Varanasi, the Kaal Bhairav Temple holds a unique and mandatory place in the spiritual life of Kashi. According to legend, Lord Shiva himself appointed Kaal Bhairav as the city’s divine guardian. In this role, he protects the city and its devotees from all fears and obstacles.

• The “Kotwal of Kashi”: As the city’s guardian, Kaal Bhairav is believed to maintain law and order on a cosmic level. It is said that even Yama, the god of death, does not have jurisdiction in Kashi, and it is Kaal Bhairav who decides the fate of those who live and die here.
• The Idol and Rituals: The temple’s inner sanctum houses a striking, silver-faced idol of the deity, who is seated on his vahana (vehicle), the dog. The atmosphere is intense and powerful. Devotees offer mustard oil and flowers, and often receive a ganda (a sacred black thread) to wear on their wrist or arm. This thread is believed to protect the wearer from evil spirits and negativity.
• Pilgrimage: A visit to Kashi is traditionally considered incomplete without paying respects to the Kotwal. Priests at the temple may lightly tap devotees with a broom of peacock feathers, a symbolic ritual to bless them and drive away negative energies.