Kaal Bhairav Jayanti
Kaal Bhairav Jayanti, celebrating the fierce form of Lord Shiva, Kaal Bhairav, is observed every year on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Margashirsha. This year, it coincides with Brahma Yoga.
Date of Kaal Bhairav Jayanti
According to the Vedic Panchang, this year the Ashtami Tithi will begin on 22nd November at 6:07 PM and will end on 23rd November (Saturday) at 7:56 AM. Hence, in 2024, Kaal Bhairav Jayanti will be observed on 22nd November (Friday).
Significance of Kaal Bhairav Jayanti
On this day, Lord Shiva incarnated as Kaal Bhairav. When his consort Sati immolated herself at her father King Daksha's yajna (sacrificial ritual), Lord Shiva, in his intense rage, took the form of Kaal Bhairav to punish Daksha. Kaal Bhairav chastised Daksha for disrespecting Lord Shiva and for Sati's self-immolation.
Worshiping Kaal Bhairav removes negativity and evil forces. It also alleviates planetary afflictions, diseases, and the fear of death.
Benefits of Fasting on Kaal Bhairav Jayanti
Bhairav is considered a Gana (attendant) of Lord Shiva, whose vehicle is a dog. Fasting on Kaal Bhairav Jayanti fulfills all desires. The worship of Bhairav in the forms of Batuk Bhairav and Kaal Bhairav is very popular. In other tantric practices, eight forms of Bhairav are worshiped: Asitang Bhairav, Rudra Bhairav, Chandra Bhairav, Krodh Bhairav, Unmatt Bhairav, Kapali Bhairav, Bhishan Bhairav, and Sanhar Bhairav. On this day, devotees should chant “Om Kaalbhairavaya Namah” throughout the day.
Complete Fasting Procedure
Before worshipping Lord Shiva, it is customary to worship Bhairav. On Kalashtami, both Kaal Bhairav and Goddess Durga should be worshipped.
- In the evening, listen to the story of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.
- After listening to the story, distribute jaggery.
- Worshiping Kaal Bhairav eliminates obstacles caused by ghosts and spirits.
Importance of Worshiping Kaal Bhairav
Kaal Bhairav is considered an avatar of Lord Shiva's fierce form. It is believed that he himself is an incarnation of time. Worshipping him frees a person from the fear of untimely death. According to mythological stories, Kaal Bhairav's incarnation occurred on the Ashtami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Margashirsha or Agahan. This day is celebrated as Kaal Bhairav Jayanti. It is believed that worshipping Kaal Bhairav on this day destroys obstacles related to tantra, mantra, and evil spirits. On this day, one should observe a fast and worship Kaal Bhairav according to the proper rituals.
Worship Methods Associated with Lord Bhairav
- On Kaal Bhairav Jayanti, visit a temple of Lord Bhairav and worship him with proper rituals. It is believed that this pleases Lord Shiva and brings good results. On this day, lamps are also lit in front of the Bhairavnath temple, which is said to protect devotees from untimely death.
- To seek the blessings of Lord Bhairav, also known as the Kotwal of Kashi, offer him flowers, fruits, coconut, betel leaves, and vermilion during the worship.
- Married couples should worship Kaal Bhairav for happiness and prosperity. To do this, light a mustard oil lamp under a Shami tree on the night of Bhairav Ji's birthday. This will increase love in your relationship.
- To receive blessings from Lord Bhairav, chant his mantras: “Om Kaal Bhairavaya Namah” and “Om Freem Batukai Mam Aapad Uddharanai, Kul Kurum Batukai Bam Reem Om Phat Swaha.” The Bhairav Yantras also hold significant importance in his worship. In such a case, offer the Shree Bhairav Yantra according to the sacred procedure.
- Since Kaal Bhairav is a form of Lord Mahadev, it is also considered auspicious to worship the Shivalinga on this day. Write “Om Namah Shivaya” with sandalwood on 21 bilva leaves and offer them to the Shivalinga.
