Kalashtami 2026: Key Timings and Rituals for February 9 Observance
As the lunar month progresses, millions of Hindus across India and beyond are preparing to observe Kalashtami on Monday, February 9, 2026. This monthly festival, dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav—a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva—holds deep spiritual significance for devotees seeking protection, prosperity, and liberation from past sins.
What is Kalashtami?
Kalashtami, also known as Masik Kala Ashtami, is observed every Hindu lunar month on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami—the eighth day during the waning phase of the moon. It is a day devoted to worshipping Lord Bhairav, who is revered as the "God of Time" and a guardian deity in Shiva traditions.
According to Hindu scriptures like the Aditya Purana, Lord Bhairav appeared when Lord Shiva severed the fifth head of Brahma to subdue his arrogance. Thus, Kalashtami is seen as an opportunity to appease this powerful form of Shiva and ward off negativity, fear, and obstacles.
Kalashtami 2026: Important Timings
For accurate rituals, devotees follow the Ashtami tithi timing. This month, the window for observance is:
- Ashtami Tithi Start: 05:01 AM on February 9, 2026
- Ashtami Tithi End: 07:27 AM on February 10, 2026
All timings are in IST for Ujjain, India. Local variations may apply.
Other notable timings on February 9 include:
- Sunrise: 07:06 AM
- Sunset: 06:15 PM
- Moonrise: 12:18 AM (Feb 10)
- Moonset: 12:03 PM
Rituals and Observances
Devotees typically follow these practices on Kalashtami:
1. Pre-dawn Bath: Observers wake up early and take a ritual bath.
2. Fasting: Many keep a strict fast from sunrise to next sunrise, consuming only water or fruits. Some even stay awake all night (Jagaran).
3. Puja and Mantras: Special prayers are offered to Lord Bhairav, often using a silver or black stone idol. Chanting the Kaal Bhairav Katha and dedicated mantras is considered highly auspicious.
4. Temple Visits: Evening visits to Bhairav or Shiva temples are common.
5. Feeding Dogs: Since a black dog is believed to be Lord Bhairav’s vehicle, offering milk and sweets to dogs is a key ritual.
6. Charity: Donating food, especially to Brahmins at pilgrim sites like Varanasi, is encouraged.
Why This Kalashtami is Significant
This February 9 Kalashtami holds added importance as it falls on a Monday, a day sacred to Lord Shiva. In 2026, the most significant Kalashtami—Kalabhairav Jayanti—will occur later in the year, but each monthly observance is seen as a chance to cleanse karma and seek divine protection.
Astrologers note that observing Kalashtami is believed to remove Shani (Saturn) and Rahu-Ketu related afflictions, offering relief from hardships.
Cultural and Contemporary Relevance
In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, festivals like Kalashtami provide a spiritual pause—a day to reflect, detoxify, and reconnect with cultural roots. Online platforms and apps now send reminders for tithi timings, and virtual pujas have made participation accessible to the global diaspora.
The 2026 Hindu calendar lists 13 Kalashtami dates, with the next falling on March 11. Each offers a monthly reset for devotees.
Final Thought
Whether you are a devout follower or a cultural observer, understanding days like Kalashtami enriches appreciation for India’s living traditions. As February 9 approaches, temples across the country will resonate with chants, echoing a timeless practice of faith and reverence.
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