Kalashtami Date in September

There are traditionally 12 Kalashtami observances in a lunar year, with one occurring in each Hindu lunar month. Among these, the Kalashtami observed during the Margashirsha month is regarded as particularly important and is associated with Kalabhairav Jayanti.Kalashtami is considered especially significant by devotees of Lord Shiva and Kaal Bhairav. According to traditional belief, Sundays and Tuesdays are also considered particularly auspicious for worshipping Bhairav because of their association with the deity.

Morning Puja Rituals

Devotees observing Kalashtami traditionally begin the day with an early bath and preparations for worship. Special prayers are offered to Lord Kaal Bhairav, with devotees seeking blessings and forgiveness.Some devotees also visit Kaal Bhairav temples in the evening to offer prayers. Recitation of Kaal Bhairav-related religious texts and chanting of Shiva or Bhairav mantras are among the practices associated with the observance.The festival is also connected with remembrance of ancestors in some traditions, with special prayers or offerings performed during the morning.

Kalashtami Fasting

Fasting is another important practice associated with Kalashtami. Devotees may observe a strict fast throughout the day, while some followers also keep a vigil during the night.Religious traditions associated with the observance state that devotees may listen to stories connected with Lord Shiva and Mahakaleshwar during the night vigil. The nature and strictness of the fast can differ according to individual, family and regional traditions.

Feeding Dogs

One of the distinctive customs associated with Kalashtami is feeding dogs. In Hindu tradition, the dog is regarded as the vehicle of Lord Bhairav, with particular significance attached to the black dog.Devotees may offer food to dogs as part of the day's religious practice. The supplied source mentions offerings such as milk, curd and sweets. Feeding Brahmins at religious pilgrimage centres, including Kashi, is also described as an auspicious practice in traditional belief.

Religious Significance

Kaal Bhairav is regarded in Hindu tradition as a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The name is traditionally associated with the concepts of time and Bhairav, leading to Kaal Bhairav's description as a deity connected with time.Traditional accounts describe the origin of Kaal Bhairav through a story involving Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. According to the legend, Shiva assumed the form of Bhairav following a dispute involving Brahma and severed one of Brahma's heads.The observance is therefore associated with devotion to Kaal Bhairav and prayers for protection, spiritual strength and freedom from difficulties. These are matters of religious belief and tradition and are not claims that can be independently verified.

Kalashtami 2026 Timings

According to the supplied Ujjain Panchang details:

•              Kalashtami: Friday, September 4, 2026

•              Ashtami Tithi begins: 2:25 AM on September 4

•              Ashtami Tithi ends: 12:14 AM on September 5

•              Sunrise: 6:13 AM

•              Sunset: 6:38 PM

•              Moonrise: 11:45 PM

•              Moonset: 1:00 PM

Since tithi timings depend on geographical location and Panchang calculations, devotees in other cities may see different timings.

Hindu devotees across India are observing Masik Kalashtami on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, a monthly festival dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, one of the fiercest manifestations of Lord Shiva. The occasion is considered highly auspicious for devotees seeking protection from negative influences, removal of obstacles, and spiritual growth through fasting and special prayers.

Kalashtami is observed every month on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha, the waning phase of the lunar month. According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping Lord Kaal Bhairav on this day is believed to bring peace, prosperity, courage and relief from hardships.

Kalashtami 2026 Date and Timings

According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ashtami Tithi for Kalashtami begins at 8:42 PM on August 5 and ends at 6:53 PM on August 6.

Important timings (IST):

• Date: Wednesday, August 5, 2026

• Ashtami Tithi Begins: 8:42 PM (August 5)

• Ashtami Tithi Ends: 6:53 PM (August 6)

• Sunrise: 6:03 AM

• Sunset: 7:02 PM

The timings are based on Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, and may vary slightly depending on location.

Why Kalashtami Is Celebrated

Kalashtami is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, who is regarded as the guardian deity of time and protector of dharma. Hindu scriptures describe Kaal Bhairav as a powerful manifestation of Lord Shiva who destroys evil, removes fear and protects devotees from negative energies.

Among the twelve Kalashtami observances held every year, the one celebrated during the Margashirsha month is observed as Kalabhairav Jayanti, which holds special religious significance.

Rituals Followed on Kalashtami

Devotees begin the day with an early morning bath and observe a fast while offering prayers to Lord Kaal Bhairav. Many visit Bhairav or Shiva temples to perform special puja and seek divine blessings.

The rituals commonly observed include:

• Offering flowers, fruits and sweets to Lord Kaal Bhairav.

• Chanting Bhairav mantras and reciting Kaal Bhairav Katha.

• Lighting mustard oil or sesame oil lamps during evening worship.

• Performing prayers for ancestors.

• Remaining awake during the night in devotion to Lord Shiva.

A unique tradition associated with Kalashtami is feeding dogs, which are considered the sacred vehicle (vahana) of Lord Bhairav. Devotees often offer milk, curd, sweets or bread to dogs as part of the day's rituals.

Religious Significance

According to Hindu beliefs and references found in ancient scriptures, observing the Kalashtami Vrat with devotion helps devotees overcome fear, remove obstacles and seek protection from misfortune.

The festival is also associated with repentance and spiritual purification. Worshippers believe that sincere prayers offered to Lord Bhairav help eliminate negative influences and bring stability, prosperity and success in life.

Many devotees also perform charitable acts, including feeding Brahmins and donating food to the needy, considering such acts especially meritorious on Kalashtami.

A Day of Devotion

Temples dedicated to Lord Bhairav and Lord Shiva witness increased footfall on Kalashtami, with devotees participating in special aartis, bhajans and night-long prayers. The monthly observance continues to hold deep spiritual importance for Shiva devotees across the country.

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

Devotees of Lord Kaal Bhairav will observe Masik Kalashtami on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, one of the most sacred monthly occasions dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The festival is observed every month on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami (eighth day of the waning phase of the Moon) and is believed to remove negative influences, grant protection and bless devotees with prosperity and spiritual strength.

According to the Hindu calendar, the Ashtami Tithi will begin at 1:25 PM on July 7 and conclude at 12:22 PM on July 8 (IST, Ujjain).

Kalashtami 2026: Important Timings

• Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026

• Ashtami Tithi Begins: 1:25 PM (July 7)

• Ashtami Tithi Ends: 12:22 PM (July 8)

• Sunrise: 5:51 AM

• Sunset: 7:12 PM

• Moonrise: 11:58 PM

• Moonset: 12:02 PM

Significance of Masik Kalashtami

Masik Kalashtami is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, who is revered as the guardian deity of time and protector of devotees. In Hindu tradition, Lord Bhairav is considered a powerful form of Lord Shiva who removes fear, negativity and obstacles from life.

The significance of Kalashtami is mentioned in the Aditya Purana, where worshipping Lord Bhairav on this day is believed to bring peace, prosperity and protection from evil influences. Devotees also seek forgiveness for past mistakes and pray for good health, success and spiritual progress.

Among the twelve Kalashtami observances held each year, the one falling in the Margashirsha month is celebrated as Kalabhairav Jayanti, the most important festival dedicated to the deity.

Rituals Observed on Kalashtami

Devotees begin the day with an early morning bath before sunrise and observe a strict fast throughout the day. Special prayers and rituals are performed at Kaal Bhairav temples, especially during the evening.

The main rituals include:

• Offering flowers, incense, fruits and sweets to Lord Kaal Bhairav.

• Chanting Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam, Shiva mantras and other sacred hymns.

• Reading or listening to the Kaal Bhairav Katha.

• Performing prayers for ancestors during the morning.

• Visiting Lord Kaal Bhairav temples in the evening for special worship.

• Many devotees observe a night vigil, spending the night in prayer and devotional activities.

A unique tradition associated with Kalashtami is feeding dogs, regarded as the sacred vehicle (Vahana) of Lord Bhairav. Devotees commonly offer milk, curd, sweets and other food items to stray dogs as an act of devotion.

Offering food to Brahmins and donating to the needy are also considered highly meritorious on this occasion.

Spiritual Importance

According to Hindu beliefs, observing the Kalashtami Vrat with sincerity helps devotees overcome fear, remove obstacles, ward off negative energies and attain prosperity and happiness.

Mythological accounts state that Lord Bhairav manifested when Lord Shiva, angered during a dispute with Lord Brahma, assumed a fierce form and severed Brahma's fifth head. Since then, Lord Kaal Bhairav has been worshipped as the divine guardian of righteousness and time.

Kalashtami Dates in 2026

Following the July observance, the remaining Kalashtami dates in 2026 are:

• August 5

• September 4

• October 3

• November 1

• December 1

• December 30

Devotees across India, particularly at prominent Kaal Bhairav temples in Ujjain, Varanasi and other Shiva pilgrimage centres, are expected to observe the monthly festival with traditional rituals, fasting and special prayers.

Kalashtami 2026 on April 10: Devotees Gear Up for Kaal Bhairav Puja

As Kalashtami 2026 falls on April 10, Hindu devotees across India are preparing to observe the sacred day dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav with fasting, special prayers and temple visits.

Kalashtami 2026 Date Confirmed  

Kalashtami 2026 will be observed on Friday, April 10. The Ashtami Tithi begins at 9:20 pm on April 9 and ends at 11:16 pm on April 10, according to the Hindu calendar for Ujjain. With just two days remaining, families are finalising their plans for the vrat and puja.

Traditional Rituals to Observe  

Devotees wake before sunrise for a ritual bath and perform early morning puja to Lord Kaal Bhairav. Many visit Bhairav temples in the evening, offering prayers and seeking forgiveness for past sins. A strict fast is kept throughout the day, while some observers stay awake at night listening to stories of Mahakaleshwar. Feeding black dogs with milk, curd and sweets is an important custom, as the animal is considered the vehicle of Lord Bhairav. Offering food to Brahmins at pilgrim sites such as Kashi is also believed to bring special merit.

Important Tithi Timings  

Sunrise on April 10 is at 6:14 am and sunset at 6:41 pm. Moonrise occurs at 1:14 am and moonset at 12:56 pm. These timings, calculated for Ujjain, serve as the standard reference for observers across the country. The festival gains extra importance when it falls on a Sunday or Tuesday, days traditionally linked to Lord Bhairav.

Legend of Lord Bhairav  

According to the Aditya Purana, Lord Shiva took the fierce form of Kaal Bhairav after an argument among Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. In this manifestation, Shiva severed the fifth head of Brahma to control his anger. Since then, Kaal Bhairav has been worshipped as the God of Time who protects devotees from negative forces. The day is especially significant for followers of Lord Shiva.

Blessings from Kalashtami Vrat  

Those who observe the fast and rituals with devotion are believed to receive prosperity, happiness and success in all endeavours. The vrat is said to remove suffering, pain and negative influences from life. Hindu scriptures emphasise that sincere worship on Kalashtami brings divine blessings from Lord Shiva himself.

Devotees Across India  

Temples dedicated to Kaal Bhairav witness heavy footfall during Kalashtami. From Varanasi to smaller shrines in towns and villages, the atmosphere is filled with bhajans and chants. The festival is celebrated with full enthusiasm in different parts of the country, reflecting the deep-rooted faith in this fierce yet protective form of Shiva.

Full List of 2026 Dates  

Besides April 10, the remaining Kalashtami dates for 2026 are: May 9, June 8, July 7, August 5, September 4, October 3, November 1, December 1 and December 30. The most important among the twelve annual observances is the one in Margashirsha month, known as Kalabhairav Jayanti.

With Kalashtami 2026 just days away, the festival once again reminds millions of the power of devotion and the importance of seeking Lord Bhairav’s blessings for peace and prosperity in the year ahead.

Kalashtami January 2026: A Powerful Spiritual Day Ahead

With just two days to go, Kalashtami January 2026 will be observed on Saturday, January 10, offering devotees a spiritually significant opportunity to seek the blessings of Lord Kaal Bhairav, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Observed every lunar month, Kalashtami holds special relevance in today’s fast-paced world where many seek protection from negative energies, inner strength, and clarity.

According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ashtami Tithi will begin at 8:24 AM on January 10 and end at 10:20 AM on January 11 (IST, Ujjain). The day is marked by fasting, temple visits, mantra chanting, and acts of charity.

Important Timings for Kalashtami 2026

Key timings devotees should note:

 Ashtami Tithi Start: 8:24 AM, January 10

 Ashtami Tithi End: 10:20 AM, January 11

 Sunrise: 7:14 AM

 Sunset: 5:54 PM

 Moonrise: 12:42 AM

 Moonset: 12:16 PM

Astrologers advise performing Kaal Bhairav Puja during the evening hours, which is considered most auspicious.

Rituals Observed on Masik Kalashtami

Kalashtami is especially important for followers of Lord Shiva. Traditional rituals include:

 Early morning bath before sunrise

 Observing a strict fast throughout the day

 Performing special puja of Lord Kaal Bhairav

 Reciting Kaal Bhairav Katha and Shiva mantras

 Visiting Bhairav temples in the evening

 Feeding dogs, regarded as the vehicle of Lord Bhairav

 Offering food to Brahmins and helping the needy

Some devotees also observe night-long vigils, listening to stories of Mahakaleshwar and meditating.

Spiritual Significance of Kalashtami

The importance of Kalashtami is described in ancient texts like the Aditya Purana. The word ‘Kaal’ means time, and ‘Bhairav’ represents Shiva’s powerful form, making Lord Kaal Bhairav the God of Time. Hindu belief says worshipping Him helps remove fear, suffering, obstacles, and negative planetary influences.

According to legend, Lord Bhairav appeared to control cosmic imbalance, and His worship is believed to bring protection, prosperity, and success.

Why Kalashtami Matters Today

In 2026, as people face stress, uncertainty, and emotional fatigue, Kalashtami January 2026 offers a moment for spiritual grounding. Experts say regular observance of Masik Kalashtami helps cultivate discipline, mental peace, and resilience—qualities deeply needed in modern life.

All Kalashtami Dates in 2026 at a Glance

There will be 13 Kalashtami observances in 2026, starting from January 10 and ending on December 30, giving devotees multiple chances to observe this sacred vrat throughout the year.

As Kalashtami January 2026 approaches, devotees across India prepare to honor Lord Kaal Bhairav with devotion and faith. Whether through fasting, prayer, or charity, this sacred day serves as a reminder of time, discipline, and spiritual balance—values that remain timeless even today.