📌 Calendar (2026)
| Date | Day | Observance | Hindu Month & Tithi |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 2, 2026 | Friday | Kalashtami | Ashwina, Krishna Ashtami |
⏰ Kalashtami 2026 – Tithi & Ritual Timings
- Tithi: Krishna Ashtami
- Hindu Month: Ashwina
- Deity: Lord Bhairav (form of Lord Shiva)
- Puja Time (Preferred):
Evening to Midnight (after sunset) - Abhishek & Deep Daan: Evening hours
- Fasting: From sunrise till evening/night puja
📌 Exact timings may vary slightly as per local Panchang and sunset time.
📌 Kalashtami – Significance
Kalashtami is observed every month on Krishna Paksha Ashtami and is especially dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, the fierce protector and remover of fear and negativity.
Observing Kalashtami is believed to:
- Remove negative energies and obstacles
- Provide protection from misfortune
- Reduce fear, anxiety, and karmic burdens
Devotees observe fasting, perform Bhairav Puja, offer black sesame, mustard oil lamps, and pray for strength and protection.
📖 Kalashtami Story (Katha)
According to Shaiva tradition, Lord Bhairav manifested to destroy arrogance and protect cosmic order.
It is believed that worshipping Bhairav on Kalashtami pleases him quickly, granting protection and relief from suffering.
Scriptures mention that Bhairav is the guardian of time (Kaal), and worship on this day helps devotees overcome fear of time, death, and injustice.
📌 Kalashtami – 10-Year Calendar (and onwards)
| Year | Date | Day | Tithi | Preferred Puja Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Oct 2 | Friday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2027 | Sept 24 | Friday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2028 | Oct 11 | Wednesday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2029 | Sept 30 | Sunday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2030 | Sept 20 | Friday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2031 | Oct 8 | Wednesday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2032 | Sept 26 | Sunday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2033 | Oct 15 | Saturday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2034 | Oct 4 | Wednesday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
| 2035 | Sept 23 | Sunday | Krishna Ashtami | Evening–Midnight |
📌 Kalashtami is observed monthly; dates change according to lunar calendar.
📌 Short FAQ – Kalashtami
❓ What is Kalashtami?
Kalashtami is a monthly observance on Krishna Ashtami dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav.
❓ When is Kalashtami in October 2026?
It falls on Friday, October 2, 2026.
❓ What is the best time for Kalashtami Puja?
Evening to midnight hours after sunset.
❓ Is fasting necessary on Kalashtami?
Fasting is optional but highly recommended for devotees of Lord Bhairav.
❓ What offerings are made on Kalashtami?
Black sesame, mustard oil lamp, fruits, and sweets are commonly offered.
