The Socio-Cultural Importance of the Worship of Shiva as Bhairava in the Kumaun Himalayas: A Historical Study of the Astha Bhairav Worship in Almora

Uttarakhand is abode of gods and home of Lord Shiva. Bhairava worshipped in Kumaun Himalayan town of Almora as most adored deity and worship is entirely different than other parts of Asia. Yet this speciality is still unrevealed for researchers and theologists. As several other towns are known for their Bhairava temples and attract devotees from different parts. Historic town of Almora is still waiting for its temples for popularity. Bhairava is worshipped as a god in the countries of South Asia including India and Nepal.

India is a country with vast diversity in religion, faiths and beliefs. India is the only country which is a cradle of several religions; some major religions here are Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, etc. A large number of populace believe in the diverse religions. Hinduism believes in various gods and goddesses. The worshippers of Bhairava are among one of them. Derivation of Lord Bhairavais is entrenched in Hindu mythology and is sacred for other region Buddhism as well as for Jainism. Lord Bhairava has been considered as the most frightful and makes everything vibrate and controls the whole cosmos. In ancient Sanskrit language Bhairava is a symbol of fear or frightful. The Bhairava is ferocious appearance of almighty Lord Shiva associated with annihilation. The word Bhairava is the combination of two words, meaning of first part in English of original Sanskrit word Bahi is fear and the suffix Ravare presents vibrate. Almora is a scenic Himalayan town in the Kumaun region situated in the east of Uttarakhand in India, with breath-taking views of Himalayas, attracts visitors worldwide to its enthralling grandeur of natural beauty. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage also known as cultural capital. In Almora eight temples of Bhirava, a form of Shiva, were build during the16th-17th Century. In Almora 08 Bhairava's are worshipped in an exclusive local method. The impact of local dialect can be seen in the nomenclature also, which make a difference from other part of the South Asia. The blessing can be attained from his worship are without delay and with modest form of devotion only. Bhairva showers his blessings on his devotees for everlasting happiness. This paper will through light on the Bhairava worship at Almora which is quite unique from other parts of Asia. Almora is only place in India where Asta Bhairava has been worshipped in Satvic form.