Mahabhairav Temple

The Mahabhairav Temple is a significant Hindu place of worship located on a hillock in the northern part of Tezpur town, Assam, India. It is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Legend and Construction

According to local legend, the temple was originally built by King Bana. Historical accounts suggest that the initial construction was of stone. However, the present structure has been renovated and rebuilt using concrete. Some beliefs hold that King Bana achieved prosperity through his worship of Lord Shiva at this temple, and the Shiva linga itself is reputed to be made of 'Living Stone,' which is said to grow slowly over the years.

Administration and Worship

During the Ahom rule, kings, particularly from the Tungkhungia dynasty, provided significant support to the temple, donating land and appointing priests and caretakers. Presently, the Mahabhairav Temple is managed by the Government of Assam, with a managing committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Sonitpur overseeing its affairs.

Festivals and Rituals

The temple is a popular destination for pilgrims, especially during Maha Shivaratri, an important annual festival for the Shaivite tradition of Hinduism. Devotees from far and wide congregate here to celebrate. A notable ritual involves offering Laddu laced with Bhang, an edible preparation of cannabis mixed with milk and spices, as prasad to Lord Shiva. The temple also conducts various pujas, and the freeing of pigeons is practiced, symbolizing the liberation of ancestral spirits.