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:
| Kalashtami Date | Day | Vikram Samvat | Month | Tithi | Begins | Ends |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 21, 2025 | Tuesday | 2081 - 2082 | Magha | Krishna Ashtami | 12:39 PM, Jan 21 | 03:18 PM, Jan 22 |
| February 20, 2025 | Thursday | 2081 - 2082 | Phalguna | Krishna Ashtami | 09:58 AM, Feb 20 | 11:57 AM, Feb 21 |
| March 22, 2025 | Saturday | 2081 - 2082 | Chaitra | Krishna Ashtami | 04:23 AM, Mar 22 | 05:23 AM, Mar 23 |
| April 20, 2025 | Sunday | 2081 - 2082 | Vaishakha | Krishna Ashtami | 07:00 PM, Apr 20 | 06:58 PM, Apr 21 |
| May 20, 2025 | Tuesday | 2081 - 2082 | Jyeshtha | Krishna Ashtami | 05:51 AM, May 20 | 04:55 AM, May 21 |
| June 18, 2025 | Wednesday | 2081 - 2082 | Ashadha | Krishna Ashtami | 01:34 PM, Jun 18 | 11:55 AM, Jun 19 |
| July 17, 2025 | Thursday | 2081 - 2082 | Shravana | Krishna Ashtami | 07:08 PM, Jul 17 | 05:01 PM, Jul 18 |
| August 16, 2025 | Saturday | 2081 - 2082 | Bhadrapada | Krishna Ashtami | 11:49 PM, Aug 15 | 09:34 PM, Aug 16 |
| September 14, 2025 | Sunday | 2081 - 2082 | Ashwina | Krishna Ashtami | 05:04 AM, Sep 14 | 03:06 AM, Sep 15 |
| October 13, 2025 | Monday | 2081 - 2082 | Kartika | Krishna Ashtami | 12:24 PM, Oct 13 | 11:09 AM, Oct 14 |
| November 12, 2025 | Wednesday | 2081 - 2082 | Margashirsha | Krishna Ashtami | 11:08 PM, Nov 11 | 10:58 PM, Nov 12 |
| December 11, 2025 | Thursday | 2081 - 2082 | Pausha | Krishna Ashtami | 01:57 PM, Dec 11 | 02:56 PM, Dec 12 |
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.
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