Kalashtami Festival 2024, India

Overview

Each year on the 'Krishna Paksha Ashtami Tithi,' Hindus celebrate Kalashtami, also known as Kala Ashtami. This festival is devoted to Lord Bhairav (the 8th day during the waning phase of the moon).

Ashtami Tithi, the eighth day following Purnima (full moon), is revered as the most auspicious day to appease Lord Kaal Bhairav. It is on this day when Hindus fast in honor of Lord Bhairav.

The year, there are 12 Kalashtami celebrations.

The one that occurs during the 'Margashirsha month is the most prominent and is celebrated as 'Kalabhairav Jayanti. On account of their association with Lord Bhairav, Sundays and Tuesdays that Kalashtami falls on are also revered.

Significance Of Kalashtami

Kalashtami's magnificence is proclaimed in the 'Aditya Purana. On Kalashtami, the dark form of Shiva, Kaal Bhairav, is the primary object of adoration.

Why It Is Called Kalashtami

Kalashtami is so named because it falls on the 'Ashtami Tithi,' or the fifth day of the lunar month. The Sanskrit name for "eight days" following "Purnima" is "Ashtami" ( Purnima means the full moon night). Mythology suggests that the best day to worship and appease Lord Kaa Bhairav is the eighth day following Purnima. Regular rituals honoring Lord Bhairav have been practiced in Hindu temples today. To appease and please Lord Bhairav, this fast is essential. Each year has 12 Kalashtami.

Rituals To Follow On Kalashtami

Do Pooja Following All Needed Custom-

Kalashtami is the holiest day of the year for those who worship Shiva. Devotees on this holy day get up before sunrise to pray and meditate. After finishing their errands for the day, they treat themselves to a hot shower. Following proper preparation, worshippers undertake a special puja of Kaal Bhairav. The people of this region think that God Bhairav has released them from their sins and guilt. Also, the most beloved of Lord Bhairav's devotees are protected from harm by a protective barrier that keeps out all the harmful energy. His faithful are always protected and content under his divine protection.

Visit The Temple Of Lord Bhairav On This Auspicious Day

Devotees also flock to the temple of Lord Bhairav on this day to fully immerse themselves in the spirituality there. It is said that Kalashtami represents Lord Shiva in his ferocious incarnation. The goal of assuming the form of Lord Bhairav was to appease Lord Brahma.

Following A Strict Fast

On this day, followers abstain from food, drink, and entertainment to focus on their devotion. Additionally, hearing the legends of Mahakaleshwar helps students understand the significance of this event. Those who observe the fast and worship Lord Shiva on this day are promised a lifetime of success and pleasure. The recitation of the Kaal Bhairav Katha and the continuous chanting of Lord Shiva's mantras are also highly recommended on this holy day.

Feed A Black Dog

It is also traditional to feed a black dog on this day. The black hound is Lord Bhairav's chariot. Milk, curd, and candy are all acceptable options.

Important Of Kalashtami

In Hinduism, "Time" is referred to as "Kaal." Moreover, Kaal Bhairav represents Lord Shiva Himself. Time, or Bhairav, is worshipped as Kaal Bhairav. According to Hindu legend, Lord Shiva was offended by a remark by Lord Brahma. Taking the avatar of "Mahakaleshwar," he severed the fifth head of Lord Brahma. Because of this, he is now also revered as Kaal Bhairav.

It is also thought that if you worship him with complete confidence and trust, nothing bad will happen to you. His followers trust him to protect them from evil forces. Removing sorrow, suffering, and problems from one's life directly result from worshipping Lord Bhairav. If you want Lord Bhairav's blessing, you should celebrate Kalashtami. A spiritual life fills you with good vibes.

Kalashtami: History

Mythology states that Lord Kalabhairav was born from one of Lord Shiva's fingernails. It is said that once upon a time, Vishnu and Brahma debated whose power was greater. A massive Agni Linga appeared between Lord Vishnu & Lord Brahma as they argued, and despite their best attempts, they could not determine where the linga's pointy end was located.

New Worship Practice For Kalashtami

On Kalashtami, fasting devotees should get up early, shower, and worship Lord Kalabhairav with offerings of rice, roses, coconut, sandalwood, milk, and nuts.