The story of Veerabhadra is primarily found in the “Daksha Yajna” episode of the Vishnu Purana and Shiva Purana. According to the myth, King Daksha, the father of Sati, organized a grand yajna (sacrifice) but deliberately did not invite his daughter and her husband, Lord Shiva. This act of disrespect enraged Sati, who, unable to bear the insult, sacrificed herself in the yajna fire.

In response to Sati’s death, Lord Shiva was consumed by grief and rage. From the matted locks of Shiva’s hair, a fierce being named Veerabhadra emerged. Veerabhadra was created to destroy the yajna and avenge Sati’s death. He and his army of fierce warriors ravaged Daksha’s sacrifice, decapitated Daksha, and brought an end to his arrogant defiance of Lord Shiva. Eventually, the gods intervened, and Daksha’s head was replaced with that of a goat, restoring his life, but he was forever humbled by his actions.

Veerabhadra is worshipped in temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, particularly in regions where the Daksha Yajna story is significant. Rituals and prayers to Veerabhadra are believed to bring strength, protection, and justice to the devotee’s life. In some regions, Veerabhadra temples are visited by devotees seeking the destruction of evil forces in their lives, or for strength in facing challenges.

The Veerabhadra Mantra is often recited for removing obstacles, seeking divine protection, or in times of great difficulty. Shiva devotees also observe fasts or rituals in honor of Veerabhadra to seek blessings for courage and protection.