Dharamraj or Yamraj temple also known as Dharmeshwar Mahadev in 84 temple complex, Bharmour is considered as the only temple of lord Dharamraj or lord Yamraj in the world. In Hindu mythology Dharamraj decides the fate of souls whether they should go to heaven or hell. There is also seat of Chitragupta in front of the temple and one empty room which is considered room of Chitragupta. Chitragupta keeps complete record of actions of human beings and help Dharamraj in deciding who goes to heaven and who to hell. of Dharamraj, There are temples of Lord Chitragupta at few other places in India but record of temple of Lord Dharamraj has not been found at any other place in the world.
Temple of Yamraj, known as Dharmeshvar mahadev was built on the northern corner of Chaurasi Temple complex by Maru Varman. It is now enshrined in a temple made of stone and wood with pendent roof of slate covering. It is believed to be the court of Dharamraj and is locally called ‘dhai-podi’, which means two and half steps. These steps now may be located below the
temple.
It is also designated asdyodhi (portico) by gaddis. There is big cave below the temple (not open) and It is the belief of locals that soul of every human being travels through that cave after the fate of the soul is decided by lord Dharamraj. It is believed that every departed soul stands here to seek final permission of Dharamraj to proceed ahead. There are many stories told by the old priests of these temples which are told to them by their forefathers. When a Raja of Chamba was seen standing in front of the temple of Dharmeshavar mahadev and performing paradakshana (ambulatory round) around Chaurasi and proceeding to Kailash on his horse back, this was taken to be indication of the king’s demise in his palace at Chamba town.
