The Mystery of Kal Bhairav: Where the Deity “Drinks” Liquor

Of all the temples in Ujjain, the Kal Bhairav temple remains the most mysterious and intrigued spot for visitors. As the guardian deity of the city, Kal Bhairav is offered liquor (Madira) as a sacred sacrament. Devotees from across the country queue up with bottles of whiskey, rum, or country liquor, which are handed to the priest.

In a phenomenon that defies scientific explanation, the priest touches the saucer of liquor to the idol’s lips, and the liquid slowly disappears. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, witnessing this ritual is an unforgettable experience. The temple is situated on the banks of the Kshipra River and is an essential stop on the Ujjain pilgrimage circuit.