Kalashtami 6 October

Kalashtami is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in honor of the avatar of Shiva, Kaal Bhairava. Devotees offer Kala worships to seek the blessings of Kala Bhairava. Fasting is also observed on this day to please Kala Bhairava. The devotees take a dip in the holy river Ganga before performing the Kala rituals.

Celebrations on Kalashtami

The day is also known as Bhairava Jayanthi as it marks the birthday of Kala Bhairava. Shiva temples are decorated, and Kala idols are wrapped in black clothes for the puja. Black dogs are also worshipped as they are considered the vehicle of Bhairava.

The rituals of Kalashtami involve taking a bath and then offering prayers to Kala for Bhairava’s blessings. The devotees also offer prayers to Shiva for their ancestors’ salvation. After the Bhairav Puja, the devotees recite Bhairav Mantras and perform the Katha recitation as a ritual activity.

Rituals performed on Kalashtami. 

The festival ends with the devotees giving gifts to Bhairava idols and washing them in the Ganga river. Black animals, especially dogs, are also worshipped, and Puja is offered to them as they are considered the vehicle of Bhairava. The devotees also donate food and new clothes to the poor Kala worshippers.

In summary, Kalashtami is a significant Hindu festival that is celebrated to seek the blessings of Kala Bhairava. The festival involves various rituals and Puja activities, and it is believed that worshipping Kala Bhairava on this day brings happiness and wealth.