Devotees of Lord Shiva and Kaal Bhairav will observe Masik Kalashtami on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. The monthly festival, dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, falls on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami (eighth day of the waning moon) and is considered one of the most auspicious occasions for seeking protection, prosperity and relief from negative influences.

Kalashtami is observed every month, but the one falling during the Margashirsha month is celebrated as Kalabhairav Jayanti, which holds special religious significance.

Kalashtami 2026 Date and Tithi Timings

According to the Hindu Panchang (Ujjain timings):

• Festival Date: Wednesday, August 5, 2026

• Ashtami Tithi Begins: 8:42 PM on August 5

• Ashtami Tithi Ends: 6:53 PM on August 6

Other Important Timings (Ujjain)

• Sunrise: 6:03 AM

• Sunset: 7:02 PM

• Moonrise: 11:14 PM

• Moonset: 12:56 PM

Religious Significance

Kalashtami is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva who is revered as the God of Time. According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping Lord Bhairav on this day helps remove fear, suffering, obstacles and negative energies while bringing peace, success and prosperity.

The significance of Kalashtami is mentioned in the Aditya Purana. Hindu tradition associates Lord Kaal Bhairav with justice, protection and the destruction of evil.

According to mythology, Lord Shiva assumed the form of Mahakaleshwar and severed the fifth head of Lord Brahma following a dispute among the deities. Since then, devotees have worshipped this form as Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Kalashtami Rituals

Devotees traditionally begin the day with an early morning bath before sunrise and observe a strict fast dedicated to Lord Bhairav.

Important rituals include:

• Offering prayers to Lord Kaal Bhairav.

• Visiting Bhairav temples during the evening.

• Chanting Lord Shiva and Kaal Bhairav mantras.

• Reciting the Kaal Bhairav Katha.

• Performing rituals for departed ancestors in the morning.

• Keeping a day-long fast, with many devotees remaining awake throughout the night in prayer and devotion.

• Offering milk, curd and sweets to dogs, as the black dog is regarded as the vehicle of Lord Bhairav.

• Feeding Brahmins, particularly at sacred pilgrimage sites such as Kashi.

Spiritual Beliefs

Devotees believe that sincere worship on Kalashtami brings:

• Relief from obstacles and negative influences.

• Prosperity and happiness.

• Protection from fear and misfortune.

• Forgiveness for past sins.

• Success in personal and professional life.

• Divine blessings of Lord Shiva and Lord Kaal Bhairav.

Many followers also consider Kalashtami especially auspicious when it falls on a Sunday or Tuesday, as both days are traditionally associated with Lord Bhairav.

All Kalashtami Dates in 2026

• January 10

• February 9

• March 11

• April 10

• May 9

• June 8

• July 7

• August 5

• September 4

• October 3

• November 1

• December 1

• December 30