In the sacred city of Kashi (Varanasi), where spirituality flows through every ghat and temple, stands a powerful shrine dedicated to Batuk Bhairav, the fierce child form of Lord Bhairava—guardian of Kashi and fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that offering mustard oil and Mauli (sacred red thread) at the Batuk Bhairav Temple brings divine protection, victory over enemies, and removal of fear and black magic.

In this blog, we will explore the spiritual significance of these offerings, the story behind Batuk Bhairav, and how devotees can receive his blessings in the holy city of Kashi.

Who is Batuk Bhairav?

Batuk Bhairav is the child form of Kala Bhairava, the fierce guardian deity who protects the sacred city of Varanasi. While Kala Bhairava represents time, destruction, and justice, Batuk Bhairav reflects protective energy in a more approachable, childlike form.

He is often depicted as a young boy with a mischievous smile, holding a trident and surrounded by dogs—his vahana (vehicle). Despite his child form, Batuk Bhairav holds immense Tantrik power and is revered for protecting devotees from evil energies, spirits, and misfortunes.

Significance of Offering Mustard Oil

Why Mustard Oil?

Mustard oil (सरसों का तेल) is believed to:

• Appease Lord Bhairav, who is associated with dark energies, time, and justice.

• Cleanse aura and surroundings from negative influences.

• Remove evil eye, black magic, and obstacles.

Ritual Aspect:

• Mustard oil is poured into an oil lamp (Deepak) in front of the deity.

• The light from this lamp is said to burn away darkness and fear from one’s life.

• Many devotees also offer it into the idol’s oil well or vessel to seek protection.

Significance of Offering Mauli (Kalawa)

Mauli or Kalawa is a red sacred thread with yellow strands, tied on wrists during Hindu rituals.

Why Offer Mauli?

• It is symbolic of divine protection, spiritual commitment, and cosmic energy binding.

• Offering Mauli to Batuk Bhairav is like tying your intentions and protection to his divine power.

• Devotees also tie it on the temple railings or near the idol for fulfilling specific wishes.

Ritual Procedure at Batuk Bhairav Temple, Kashi

Step-by-step Guide:

1. Purify Yourself:

   • Take a bath before visiting the temple.

   • Wear clean clothes, preferably saffron or white.

2. Prepare Your Offerings:

   • Mustard oil in a small copper or earthen vessel.

   • Mauli thread.

   • Black urad dal, flowers (especially red), incense, and sweets.

3. At the Temple:

   • Offer mustard oil either by lighting a lamp or pouring it into the designated vessel.

   • Tie the Mauli thread on the idol’s railing or as instructed by the priest.

   • Chant “Om Hreem Batukaya Apaduddharanaya Kuru Kuru Batukaya Hreem Om Phat” for protection and blessings.

4. Special Days to Visit:

   • Sunday and Tuesday are especially powerful days for Bhairav worship.

   • Kalabhairav Ashtami is the most auspicious day to visit the temple.

Spiritual Benefits of the Offering

• Freedom from fear and psychological disturbances.

• Victory in legal or competitive matters.

• Protection from black magic, ghosts, and evil forces.

• Boost in confidence, strength, and decision-making power.

Devotee Experiences

“After I lit a mustard oil lamp at Batuk Bhairav and tied the Mauli with faith, my ongoing court case turned in my favor within weeks.” – Sunil Dubey, Lucknow

“My family was going through a tough time emotionally. A priest advised me to offer mustard oil to Batuk Bhairav. Peace returned like magic.” – Anjali Sharma, Varanasi

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• The temple is located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple – a short walk away.

• Beware of touts; ask temple priests for proper ritual guidance.

• The Prasad often includes urad dal vada or black gram laddoo.

• Don’t forget to feed the temple dogs, believed to be Bhairav’s divine messengers.