Kalashtami 13 April

Kalashtami is a Hindu festival celebrated in honor of the Shiva avatar, Kaal Bhairava. It is a day for worshiping Kala Bhairava and seeking his blessings. Kala devotees observe a fast on this day to please him. Many people also take a dip in the holy river Ganga to purify themselves before performing Kala rituals. This day is also known as Bhairava Jayanthi, as it marks the birthday of Kala Bhairava.

Celebrations on Kalashtami

The celebrations of Kalashtami involve the decoration of Shiva temples and the wrapping of Kala idols in black cloth for the puja ceremony. Black dogs are also taken to the temple and offered Puja as they are considered Bhairava’s vehicle. A Vrat or fast is observed on this day to seek happiness and wealth. It is also an auspicious day to worship Shiva by performing Puja of his idols after the Bhairava Puja.

Rituals performed on Kalashtami. 

The rituals performed on Kalashtami include taking a bath and offering prayers to Kala for Bhairava’s blessings. Devotees also offer prayers to Shiva for his blessings and the salvation of their ancestors. After the Bhairav Puja, they recite Bhairav Mantras before the idol and perform Katha recitation as a ritual activity. Gifts are offered to the Bhairava idols, and they are washed in the Ganga river. Black animals, especially dogs, are worshiped and offered Puja after the Kala Puja, as they are considered Bhairava’s vehicle. Food products and new Kali dresses are also given to poor Kala devotees as part of the donation activity.

In summary, Kalashtami is an important Hindu festival celebrated to honor Kala Bhairava, the Shiva avatar. It is a day for worshiping and seeking blessings from Kala, and devotees observe fasts and perform rituals to please him. The festival is marked by the decoration of Shiva temples, the offering of Puja to Kala and black dogs, and the donation of food and clothing to the poor.