Ashta Bhairava

The Ashta Bhairavas (Sanskrit: अष्टभैरवः, romanized: Aṣṭabhairavah, lit.

'eight Bhairavas') are the eight manifestations of the Hindu god Bhairava,[1] a ferocious form of Shiva.

They are regarded to guard and control the eight cardinal directions.

[2] The Ashta Bhairavas are described to be subordinate to Kālabhairava, who is considered the supreme ruler of time in the universe and the chief form of Bhairava.

All eight of the Ashta Bhairavas are featured at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sattainathar Temple, Sirkazhi, Sri Kamanada Ishwarar Temple, Aragalur, Sri Mahabhairavar Rudra Alayam, Chengalpattu.

A sculpture of Bhairava, Tamil Nadu, early 13th century