Kalashtami or Kala Ashtami is a ritual observed by the Devotees of Lord Bhairav during Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha every month. They observe fast and worship Lord Bhairav on all Kalashtami days.
Kalabhairav Jayanti, also known as Bhairav Ashtami, is regarded as the most significant Kalashtami, which falls in the month of Margashirsha as per North Indian, Purnima to Purnima, lunar month calendar. Whereas, Kalabhairav Jayanti falls in the month of Kartik according to the South Indian, Amavasya to Amavasya, lunar month calendar. Only the calendar names differ, but both these calendar days of Kalabhairav Jayanti fall on the same day. It is believed that Lord Shiva manifested himself as Bhairav on the same day.
Kalashtami fasting might be observed on Saptami Tithi. As per religious text Vratraj, Kalashtami fasting should be observed on that day when Ashtami Tithi is prevalent at night. Accordingly, while selecting a fasting day for Kalashtami, Templesinindiainfo.com ensures that Ashtami should prevail at least for one Ghati after Pradosh. Otherwise, the Kalashtami fasting day should be shifted to the previous day when the possibility is more for Ashtami Tithi to prevail at night.
Observed on Krishna Paksha Asthami Tithi every month. Kalabhairava is a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The greatness of Kalashtami is mentioned in Aditya Purana. It is considered auspicious when it falls on Sunday or Tuesday. During Margashira month Kalabhairava Jayanthi is observed. Worshipping Lord Kalabhairava on this day removes all the sufferings, pains and negative influences from one’s life.
Masik Kalashtami Dates:
Tuesday 25 January Kalashtami
Wednesday 23 February Kalashtami
Friday 25 March Kalashtami
Saturday 23 April Kalashtami
Sunday 22 May Kalashtami
Monday 20 June Kalashtami
Wednesday 20 July Kalashtami
Friday 19 August Kalashtami
Saturday 17 September Kalashtami
Monday 17 October Kalashtami
Wednesday 16 November Kalabhairav Jayanti
Friday 16 December Kalashtami
