Kalashtami 2025: Masik Kalashtami dates, timings, and rituals guide

Kalashtami 2025

Kalashtami, also known as Kala Ashtami, is a significant day observed every month on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha, the waning phase of the moon. On this sacred day, devotees of Lord Bhairav observe fasting and perform special prayers to seek His blessings. Kalashtami is a time to honour Lord Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, revered for His role as a protector and remover of negativity.

Kalashtami and Its Importance

The most significant Kalashtami, referred to as Kalabhairav Jayanti or Bhairav Ashtami, falls in the month of Margashirsha according to the North Indian Purnima-to-Purnima lunar calendar. In the South Indian Amavasya-to-Amavasya lunar calendar, Kalabhairav Jayanti occurs in the Kartik month. Despite the difference in calendar systems, both traditions observe Kalabhairav Jayanti on the same day. It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva manifested as Lord Bhairav to destroy evil forces and protect dharma.

Kalashtami 2025: Fasting Rules 

Observing Kalashtami fasting is slightly nuanced. According to religious texts like the Vratraj, the fast should be observed on the day when Ashtami Tithi prevails during the night. This means that if Ashtami overlaps with Saptami during the night, devotees may begin their fasting a day earlier. The DrikPanchang ensures that the selected Kalashtami fasting day adheres to this rule, particularly ensuring that Ashtami Tithi continues at least for one Ghati (approximately 24 minutes) after Pradosh (the evening period).

Kalashtami 2025: Rituals

On Kalashtami, devotees follow specific rituals to connect deeply with Lord Bhairav. Here is a guide to observing the day:

• Fasting:Devotees keep a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise. Some observe a complete fast, while others consume fruits and water.
• Worship: Bhairav puja is performed with offerings such as black sesame seeds, mustard oil, incense sticks, and flowers. The puja often includes chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Bhairav.
• Feeding Dogs: Dogs, considered the sacred vehicle of Lord Bhairav, are fed with milk, bread, or sweets as a gesture of devotion.
• Night Vigil: Many devotees stay awake through the night, engaging in prayers, Bhajans, and reading scriptures.

Here is the complete list of Masik Kalashtami dates and timings for 2025. These timings indicate the beginning and end of Ashtami Tithi:

Kalabhairav Jayanti, the most important Kalashtami, is celebrated with great devotion. It commemorates the day Lord Shiva appeared as Bhairav. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Bhairav on this day removes obstacles, provides protection from negativity, and grants spiritual growth. This day is also considered auspicious for resolving issues related to health, wealth, and legal matters.

Conclusion

Kalashtami is more than just a day of fasting and worship; it is a spiritual opportunity to cleanse your mind, seek divine protection, and align yourself with the higher energies of the universe. By observing Kalashtami with faith and dedication, devotees can experience inner peace and strength.
As you mark these dates on your calendar, remember that the blessings of Lord Bhairav are always with those who approach Him with sincerity and devotion. May Kalashtami 2025 bring positivity and fulfilment to your life.