Bhairava, the one replete with (‘rava’) with fear (‘bhaya’). The name given to the wrathful manifestation of the great Lord Shiva. Bhairava, the one who inspires bhaya in the onlooker. The Bhairava murti that you see on this page captures the beauty of traditional Bhairava iconography in pure bronze idiom.
Chaturbhujadhari, with traditional Shaivite implements in each hand. One of them, of course, a skullcup (the skullcup is a fixture in Hindu wrathful iconography). For a halo, there is a fire that flares up behind the crowned head of Bhairava. The long, serpentine bodies of snakes punctuate the naked deity’s adornment.
The presence of the quadruped is integral to the Bhairava-Pashupatinath iconography. The one in this murti is of substantial proportions, making it stand out from run-of-the-mill Bhairava murtis.
The Fearsome and Benevolent Kala Bhairava
This exquisite bronze statue captures the powerful and multifaceted deity, Kala Bhairava, an important avatar of Lord Shiva. Known as the lord of time and the destroyer of ignorance, Kala Bhairava is a fierce manifestation of Shiva, embodying his cosmic dance of destruction and creation. The sculpture, crafted from Panchaloha, an alloy of five metals revered in Hindu traditions for its spiritual and material properties, radiates an aura of ancient wisdom and divine energy.
Symbolism and Divine Attributes
Kala Bhairava is depicted with a commanding presence, his fiery headdress symbolizing his transcendental knowledge and his role as the ultimate reality that burns away all illusions. In his multiple hands, he holds iconic Shiva attributes: the Trishul (trident), representing the three gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) and the ability to destroy evil; a damaru (drum), whose sound marks the rhythm of the universe and the passage of time; and a Kapala (skull cup), symbolizing his detachment from the material world and his association with the crematorium grounds. His fierce countenance serves as a reminder of Shiva's destructive aspect, necessary for renewal and rebirth, much like the cyclical nature of time itself. The dog accompanying him, often depicted as loyal and watchful, is his Vahana (vehicle) and a symbol of Dharma, representing the path of righteousness and steadfast devotion.Historical and Cultural Resonance
The worship of Bhairava dates back to ancient times, with prominent shrines dedicated to him found across India, particularly in cities like Ujjain, Varanasi, and Kathmandu. He is revered as the protector of temples and a dispeller of negative forces. In legends, Kala Bhairava was summoned by Lord Brahma to punish a celestial being who had insulted Lord Shiva. This act solidified his reputation as a fierce protector and a formidable force against arrogance and disrespect. The artistic rendering of this statue reflects the deep-seated reverence and devotional practices associated with this powerful deity. The intricate detailing and the lustrous finish of the bronze speak to the skill of the artisans and their understanding of the profound spiritual significance of the form they are creating. This piece is not merely an object of art but a conduit for divine connection, inviting contemplation of time, destruction, and ultimate liberation.
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