Bhairav (Through the eyes of Uttarakhand) Garhwal ( Part-2)

Bhairav and Garhwal

The historical and cultural significance of Bhairav among the people of Garhwal is quite evident. Delving into the local folk tales, it becomes clear that Bhairav was especially revered by those who were marginalized and vulnerable in society. This is particularly noteworthy in the context of the prevailing caste consciousness in the Uttarakhand region. It's interesting to observe that the popularity and influence of Bhairav were more pronounced in Garhwal as compared to Kumaon, indicating a strong connection between Bhairav and the Garhwal region. Numerous folk tales and songs testify to the immense importance of Bhairav in the local and mountainous areas of Garhwal.

 Evidence of Bhairav in the folks of "Garhwal"

Folk Story-1

During his extensive research, William Sax uncovered numerous folk stories that shed light on the origins of Bhairav. One prevalent tale, widely sung throughout the Garhwal region, recounts a time when the affluent Mayur clan assigned the task of transporting large stones for temple construction to the skilled artisans of the "Tamta community." Despite the immense size and weight of the stones, the industrious members of the "Tamta community" made earnest efforts to move them. Witnessing their persistent endeavors, the Mayur clan punished them and unjustly seized their women, "Umedha and Sumedha," selling them to the Ghorkhas.

According to the folk tales, after witnessing a strange occurrence, the brothers of "Umeda and Sumeda", "Udotu and Sudotu", sought help from their guru, "Lama Hudiya". After narrating their story, the guru angrily handed them a pot filled with 52 Veers, 18 Kali, 64 Yoginis, and 90 Narsing. He covered the pot with a red cloth and instructed the Tamta brothers to take it to Uttarakhand and place it in the land of Mayur. Following their guru's instructions, the brothers brought the pot to Uttarakhand. While returning, they decided to take a break within the boundaries of "Dobari Village". When they placed the pot on the ground, it started shaking and voices emanated. Upon removing the cloth covering the pot, Bhairav emerged from inside. In the past, "Dobari Village" was known for the famous "Pandav Leela". When Bhairav, disguised as an old saint, asked the villagers for land, they made fun of him and threw him out of the village. In response, Bhairav transformed into a tiger and killed the cows and goats of the entire village, casting a curse known as "Bhairav Dosh" on the village. As a result, "Dobari Village" stopped celebrating the "Pandav Leela" till today.

After this, Bhairav went to the land of Mayurs and spread an illness that turned the entire Mayur Kingdom into a cremation ground.

According to folklore, Bhairav was an influential figure in the lives of people from the marginalized "Tamta community". He was known for seeking retribution on behalf of the community and was revered as the "Esht Devta" for the less privileged. In the Uttarakhand region, there is a belief that individuals from certain communities such as artisans and iron smiths have a unique connection with natural forces. It is said that people are afraid of incurring the wrath of these individuals, as they have the ability to impose a "Bhairav Dosh" curse. Folk tales recount instances where Bhairav protected the weaker sections of society from the upper-class individuals and cast the dreaded "Bhairav Dosh" curse upon them.