Kalashtami 9 July

Kalashtami is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in honor of the God form of Shiva, Kaal Bhairava. Devotees perform Kala worship to seek his blessings and often observe a fast as an offering to make him happy. They may also take a dip in the Ganges to purify themselves before performing Kala rituals. This day is also known as Bhairava Jayanthi as it marks the birth anniversary of Kaal Bhairava.

Celebrations on Kalashtami

The celebrations of Kalashtami involve decorating Shiva temples and covering Kala idols with black cloth for the Puja ceremony. Black dogs are also worshipped as they are considered the vehicle of Bhairava. Devotees observe a Vrat or fast to seek happiness and wealth, and offer prayers to Shiva for his blessings and to seek salvation for their ancestors. After performing the Bhairava Puja, they recite Bhairava Manters and Katha to praise Bhairava as a part of the ritual. Gifts are offered to the Bhairava idols, which are then washed in the Ganges. The black animals, especially dogs, are also worshipped and offered Puja as a part of the ritual.

Additionally, food items and new clothes are donated to poor Kala worshippers as a part of the donation activity. Overall, Kalashtami is a significant festival for devotees of Shiva and Bhairava, and it holds a lot of cultural and religious importance in Hinduism.