What Is Kalashtami: Significance and Celebration

• 23 Sep 2024
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Significance and Celebration of Kalashtami

Kalashtami, also known as Kala Ashtami, is a significant day dedicated to Lord Bhairava, a fierce and powerful form of Lord Shiva. This day is observed on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every month. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Bhairava on Kalashtami helps in removing negativity, overcoming obstacles, and gaining protection from enemies. This day is considered highly auspicious for those seeking strength, courage, and spiritual growth.

We'll explore the significance, rituals, and how Kalashtami is celebrated across India. Let's dive in to understand why this day holds such a vital place in Hindu culture.

The Significance of Kalashtami

Kalashtami is celebrated to honor Lord Bhairava, an intense and wrathful form of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Bhairava was created by Shiva to restore dharma (righteousness) and protect the universe from evil forces. Bhairava is often depicted as a fierce god holding a trident, with a dog as his mount.

Here are some of the key reasons why Kalashtami is important:

• Victory Over Evil: Kalashtami is believed to be a day when Lord Bhairava defeated the evil forces, establishing righteousness in the world. Devotees worship him to rid their lives of any evil or negative energies.

• Protection and Courage: Lord Bhairava is often invoked for protection against dangers, enemies, and obstacles. His blessings are believed to provide strength, courage, and victory in difficult situations.

• Spiritual Growth: Worshipping Bhairava on Kalashtami is also considered beneficial for those seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment. Bhairava is known to guide devotees on their spiritual path and remove ignorance from their lives.

• Atonement for Sins: Kalashtami is also an occasion for repentance and seeking forgiveness for past mistakes. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Bhairava to atone for their sins and seek his divine blessings for a better future.

Legends Associated with Kalashtami

One of the most popular legends associated with Kalashtami is the story of how Lord Bhairava was created. According to Hindu mythology, once there was a heated argument between Lord Brahma (the creator) and Lord Vishnu (the preserver) about who was the supreme deity. Lord Shiva intervened to settle the dispute, but Lord Brahma, in his arrogance, insulted Shiva. Enraged by this, Shiva created Lord Bhairava, who severed one of Brahma's five heads, thus humbling him.

This event symbolizes the destruction of ego and arrogance and is seen as a reminder to devote oneself to dharma and humility.

How Is Kalashtami Celebrated?

Kalashtami is observed by devotees across India with great devotion. The day is marked by fasting, prayers, and performing specific rituals to honor Lord Bhairava. Here are some common practices and traditions followed on this day:

Fasting and Prayers

Most devotees observe a fast on Kalashtami, either abstaining from food completely or following a fruit-based fast. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind, making it easier to connect with the divine. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Bhairava, chant mantras, and recite hymns dedicated to him.

Offering Food to Dogs

Lord Bhairava’s mount is a dog, and on Kalashtami, feeding dogs is considered highly auspicious. Many devotees prepare food and offer it to stray dogs as a way of seeking the blessings of Lord Bhairava.

Visiting Bhairava Temples

Visiting temples dedicated to Lord Bhairava is a common practice on Kalashtami. Special pujas and aartis are performed at these temples, and devotees offer flowers, sweets, and other offerings to the deity. In many places, processions are held, where the idol of Lord Bhairava is carried through the streets, accompanied by chants and devotional songs.

Night Vigil (Jagran)

Many devotees observe a night vigil (jagran) on Kalashtami, staying awake through the night to sing bhajans (devotional songs) and chant Lord Bhairava’s names. This practice is believed to bring his blessings and protection, especially for those facing challenges in life.

Bhairava Ashtami

While Kalashtami is observed every month, the Kalashtami falling in the month of Margashirsha (November-December) is particularly important and is known as Bhairava Ashtami. This day marks the appearance of Lord Bhairava and is celebrated with even more devotion and grandeur in many parts of India.

Rituals Performed on Kalashtami

Here are some common rituals observed on Kalashtami:

• Abhishekam (Holy Bath): Devotees offer abhishekam to Lord Bhairava by bathing his idol or image with water, milk, honey, and curd. This ritual is performed to purify the surroundings and invoke the deity’s blessings.

• Offering of Flowers and Sweets: Devotees offer flowers, sweets, and fruits to the deity as a symbol of devotion. Some also offer special bhog (food offerings) such as black sesame seeds, black urad dal, or coconut.

• Chanting Mantras: Chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Bhairava is an essential part of Kalashtami. The most common mantra recited is "Om Hreem Batukaya Apaduddharanaya Kuru Kuru Batukaya Hreem Om Phat," which is believed to invoke Lord Bhairava’s protection and blessings.

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Conclusion: Kalashtami 2024

Kalashtami is a day dedicated to worshipping Lord Bhairava, seeking his protection, and removing negativity from life. It is a day that symbolizes the victory of good over evil and offers an opportunity for spiritual growth and repentance. By observing fasts, offering prayers, and performing rituals, devotees aim to please Lord Bhairava and gain his blessings for strength, courage, and a prosperous future.

Whether you are seeking protection from enemies, a solution to obstacles in life, or simply spiritual growth, Kalashtami offers a powerful means of connecting with the divine energy of Lord Bhairava.

5 Most Asked Questions about Kalashtami

Why is Kalashtami celebrated?

Kalashtami is celebrated to honor Lord Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, and to seek his blessings for protection, strength, and spiritual growth. It is observed on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the waning moon phase each month.

What should we do on Kalashtami?

On Kalashtami, devotees observe fasting, offer prayers to Lord Bhairava, visit temples, and feed dogs. Some also stay awake through the night, singing devotional songs and chanting Bhairava mantras.

Is fasting necessary on Kalashtami?

While fasting is considered auspicious and is a common practice on Kalashtami, it is not mandatory. Devotees who cannot fast may still offer prayers and perform other rituals to seek Lord Bhairava’s blessings.

What is the significance of feeding dogs on Kalashtami?

Dogs are considered the mount of Lord Bhairava, and feeding them on Kalashtami is believed to please the deity. This act of kindness is seen as a way to receive Lord Bhairava’s blessings and protection.

Which is the most important Kalashtami of the year?

The Kalashtami that falls in the month of Margashirsha (November-December) is considered the most important and is known as Bhairava Ashtami. This day marks the appearance of Lord Bhairava and is celebrated with great devotion.

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