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Regional Deity · Rural Form of Bhairava / Village Guardian

Bhairava (Rural)

भैरव
Also known as: Bhairava, Bhairavnath, Village Bhairava, Kshetrapala

About

The rural form of Bhairava, worshipped as a village guardian deity across India. Often placed at village boundaries, cremation grounds, or temple entrances. Associated with protection from evil spirits, justice, and the fierce aspect of Shiva. Worshipped with offerings of liquor and meat in some traditions.

Attributes

Village guardianFierce deityBoundary protectorJusticeShiva form

Symbols

TrishulaSwordSkullDogLiquorVillage boundary
Vahana (Mount)
Dog

Associated Mantras

Om Bhairavāya Namaḥ
Bhairava Stotram
Kshetrapala Mantra

Festivals

Bhairava PujaNavaratriAnnual village festivals

Scriptures

PuranasBhairava TantraFolk traditions

Regions Worshipped

Pan-IndiaVillage traditions

Iconography

Fierce form with trishula and sword. Dark complexion, three eyes. Seated on dog or standing at village boundary. Often with skull bowl.