📅 Festival Details at a Glance
| Festival Name | Kalashtami |
|---|---|
| Date | 4 September 2026 |
| Day | Friday |
| Hindu Month | Bhadrapada |
| Tithi | Krishna Ashtami |
| Deity | Lord Bhairava |
| Observed By | Shaiva devotees |
| Purpose | Removal of fear & obstacles |
📌 What is Kalashtami?
Kalashtami is a sacred observance dedicated to Lord Bhairava, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva and the guardian of time (Kaal). It is observed on Krishna Ashtami of every month, but Bhadrapada Kalashtami is considered especially powerful due to overlapping Shakti and Shiva energies.
Devotees observe fasting and perform Bhairava worship to seek protection, fearlessness, and control over negative forces.
🔱 Spiritual & Religious Significance
Kalashtami symbolizes:
- Mastery over time and fear
- Destruction of ego and ignorance
- Protection from unseen dangers
- Spiritual discipline and courage
Lord Bhairava governs:
- Kaal (time)
- Justice and discipline
- Karmic balance
Worship on Kalashtami helps devotees face challenges with strength and clarity.
🛕 Who is Lord Bhairava?
Lord Bhairava is depicted as:
- Fierce form of Shiva
- Carrying weapons
- Accompanied by a dog (his vahana)
Symbolically, Bhairava represents:
- Awareness beyond fear
- Control over senses
- Guardian of sacred spaces
He is worshipped as Kshetrapala, the protector of temples and devotees.
📜 Kalashtami Katha (Legend)
According to Puranic legend, when Lord Brahma’s ego grew excessive, Lord Shiva manifested as Bhairava to destroy arrogance and restore cosmic balance. Bhairava severed one of Brahma’s heads, symbolizing the destruction of ego and false pride.
This story teaches:
- Humility over arrogance
- Discipline over chaos
- Awareness over ignorance
🕯️ Kalashtami Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step)
Preparation
- Wake up early and take a bath.
- Wear clean, preferably dark-colored clothes.
- Clean the puja area thoroughly.
Puja Steps
- Place an image or idol of Lord Bhairava.
- Light a diya with mustard oil or sesame oil.
- Offer black sesame seeds, flowers, and incense.
- Chant Bhairava mantras.
- Offer water or milk to a dog (symbolic Bhairava seva).
Best Time for Puja
- Evening or midnight (Nishita Kaal) is highly auspicious.
📿 Important Mantras for Kalashtami
- ॐ भैरवाय नमः
- ॐ कालभैरवाय नमः
- बटुक भैरव मंत्र
Regular mantra japa on this day is believed to remove fear and negativity.
🍽️ Vrat Rules & Offerings
- Many devotees observe nirjala or phalahar vrat.
- Grains are avoided by some devotees.
- Sattvik food is preferred.
- Alcohol and tamasic offerings are avoided in household worship.
🌍 Regional Observance
Kalashtami is widely observed in:
- Uttar Pradesh
- Madhya Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Rajasthan
- Nepal
Major Bhairava temples conduct special night pujas.
🧘 Spiritual Benefits of Observing Kalashtami
Devotees believe that Kalashtami vrat:
- Removes fear and anxiety
- Protects from accidents and evil forces
- Enhances courage and discipline
- Helps in overcoming karmic obstacles
It is especially beneficial for spiritual seekers and sadhaks.
❓ Short FAQ – Kalashtami
Q1. When is Kalashtami in 2026?
Kalashtami will be observed on 4 September 2026 (Friday).
Q2. Which deity is worshipped on Kalashtami?
Lord Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva.
Q3. Is fasting mandatory on Kalashtami?
Fasting is optional but spiritually beneficial.
Q4. Why is Kalashtami important?
It helps remove fear, negativity, and karmic obstacles.
Q5. Can householders observe Kalashtami puja?
Yes, simple puja and mantra chanting are sufficient.
Panchang Official