Bhairabi Temple: A Spiritual Haven in the Heart of Assam
Located in the town of Tezpur in the northern region of Assam, the Bhairabi Temple is a significant shrine that has long been revered by locals and devotees from around the country. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhairabi, an incarnation of Goddess Kali, who is considered to be one of the most powerful and fierce deities in Hinduism. The temple’s rich history and cultural significance make it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. It is one of the major temples in Assam
History of Bhairabi Temple
The Bhairabi Temple is believed to have been built during the 8th century AD by King Shiva Singha, a powerful ruler of the Koch dynasty. According to legend, King Shiva Singha was suffering from a chronic illness and had tried various remedies to no avail. It was only after he received a vision of Goddess Bhairabi that he was able to recover from his ailment. In gratitude, he built the Bhairabi Temple as a tribute to the goddess.
Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and additions, including the construction of a new temple building in 1819 by the Ahom king, Gaurinath Singha. The temple’s architecture reflects a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the temple’s walls and pillars.
Significance of Bhairabi Temple
For devotees of the Hindu faith, the Bhairabi Temple holds immense spiritual significance. Goddess Bhairabi is worshipped as the goddess of power and courage, and many believe that her blessings can help overcome obstacles and bring success in life. The temple is especially popular among women, who come to seek the goddess’s blessings for fertility, childbirth, and marital harmony.
The temple is also associated with several local festivals, including the Bhairabi Mela, which is held every year during the month of Chaitra (March-April). During this festival, the temple is decorated with colourful lights and flowers, and devotees flock to the shrine to offer prayers and seek the goddess’s blessings.
The Bhairabi Temple is considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, which are believed to be the places where the body parts of Goddess Sati fell. The temple is also associated with the Tantric tradition of Hinduism and is believed to be a powerful centre of spiritual energy. The temple is especially revered by women, who come here to offer prayers for the well-being and prosperity of their families.
Timing and Festivals
The Bhairabi Temple is open for devotees from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on all days of the week. The temple can be crowded during festivals and special occasions, such as Navratri and Durga Puja, which are celebrated with great fervour here. During these times, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and there are special puja rituals and cultural programmes organised.
How to Reach Bhairabi Temple
The Bhairabi Temple is located in the heart of Tezpur town in Assam and is easily accessible by road and rail. The biggest airport is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is around 181 km away from Tezpur
The Bhairabi Temple is open to visitors throughout the year, although the best time to visit is during the festival season. The temple is located in Tezpur, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Salonibari, which is about 12 km away from Tezpur, while the nearest railway station is in Rangapara, about 37 km away.
Once you reach Tezpur, the temple can be easily accessed by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. The temple is located on a hill, and visitors need to climb a flight of stairs to reach the shrine. The climb can be a bit challenging, especially for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and take breaks as needed.
Inside the temple, visitors are greeted by a serene and peaceful atmosphere, with the sounds of devotional music and the fragrance of incense filling the air. The main deity, Goddess Bhairabi, is enshrined in a small sanctum, which is decorated with flowers, lamps, and other offerings. Visitors can offer prayers and seek the goddess’s blessings by making offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets.
In conclusion, the Bhairabi Temple is a sacred shrine that holds immense cultural and spiritual significance in Assam. With its rich history, unique architecture, and beautiful surroundings, the temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the region’s religious and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a devotee seeking blessings or a curious traveller looking to learn more about Assam’s fascinating history
