DN Darshan: Sri Kilkari Bhairon Mandir, Delhi

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New Delhi / 31 Jan 2016. Dedicated to deity Bhairon, Sri Kilkari Bhairon mandir is one of the most famous Hindu temple. Bhairon is said to be the angry form of Lord Shiva. The temple is located outside the Purana Quila (Old Fort) in New Delhi.

Unlike other Lord Shiva temples where milk is offered, the deity here is offered alcohol. Devotees bring local as well as international brands of liquor like beer, brandy, scotch, whiskey etc. and offer it to the Lord. The alcohol is then distributed to the devotees as ‘Prasad’.

However, for devotees who wish to offer milk and not alcohol, there is another Bhairon shrine built adjacent to the temple called ‘Doodhiya Bhairon Temple’.
The temple attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. However, Sunday sees maximum number of worshippers coming for prayers. 

It is believed that the temple was established by the Pandavas when they were constructing their capital in Indraprastha. Bheem is said to have prayed here and attained his powers.

The temple premises also features a well, known as the ‘Pandavon ka Kuan’, the water of which is believed to have curative powers. Devotees can get water from the well with help of the temple staff.

Architecture

The temple is constructed in a complete North Indian style. Marble is used in the interiors of the building, which gives the temple an elegant look. The idols inside are also made of marble. The prime deity of the temple, Lord Bhairon, contains only the face and his extremely big eyes make him look aggressive.

 Legend

The temple boasts of a very interesting legend. It is believed that once Goddess Vaishno entered a cave leaving a warrior monkey to guard the entrance. Bhairon then a demon tried to enter the cave forcefully. This angered the Devi and she took the form of Goddess Chandi and beheaded Bhairon. The head flew to a place, now called Bhairon Ghati where the temple has been constructed. Even after being beheaded, Bhairon kept begging for mercy. Goddess Vaishno forgave him and also blessed him saying that he will be worshipped by the coming generations. This is the reason why the idol of Lord Bhairon is only till the neck. 

How to reach 

By Air 

The nearest airport to Bhairon mandir is Indira Gandhi International Airport which is 14 km from the temple

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the temple is New Delhi railway station which is 4 km from the temple

By Metro

The nearest metro station to the temple is Pragati Maidan metro station from where the temple is at walking distance.