The Hindu calendar holds a special day dedicated to the fiery form of Lord Shiva, Bhairava. This day, known as Kalashtami or Kala Ashtami, resonates with chants and devotion every lunar month. It falls on the eighth day (Ashtami Tithi) during Krishna Paksha, the waning phase of the moon.
A Day of Devotion and Fasting:
Traditionally, the most auspicious day to worship Lord Kaal Bhairav is Ashtami Tithi following the full moon (Poornima). Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers seeking his blessings. While Kalashtami is celebrated twelve times a year, the one observed in Margashirsha (the ninth month of the Hindu calendar) holds immense significance.
Why Celebrate Kalashtami?
Religious beliefs associate worshipping Lord Kaal Bhairav and fasting on this day with attaining relief from life's troubles and sorrows. It's a powerful time to connect with the divine and seek the blessings of this fierce protector.
How to celebrate?
- Embrace the Dawn: Awaken with the rising sun and take a purifying bath to cleanse your body and mind.
- Seeking Lord Bhairava's Grace: Perform a special puja dedicated to Lord Bhairava. This puja can be done at home or at a Kaal Bhairav temple.
- Honouring Ancestors: On this day, some devotees choose to perform special rituals in the morning to offer prayers and respect to their deceased ancestors.
- Inner Discipline: Devotees traditionally observe a full day fast on Kalashtami. If a full fast isn't possible, consider a partial fast with fruits, sabudana khichdi, or milk and fruits.
- Temple Visit: (Optional) In the evening, if possible, visit a Kaal Bhairav temple to offer prayers and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.
- Night Vigil: (Optional) Some devotees choose to stay awake all night, listening to devotional stories and bhajans dedicated to Lord Shiva, particularly Mahakaleshwar.
- Nurturing Devotion: Offer prayers and aarti (offering of light) to Lord Bhairava. You can also recite the Kaal Bhairav Katha, a story dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Feeding the Vahana: As a sign of respect, a tradition exists to offer food (milk, curd, sweets) to a black dog, considered Lord Bhairava's vehicle.
